St. Joseph health officials report 24 new cases of COVID-19 Thursday, but no new fatalities.

Buchanan County has seen a total of 9,817 cases and 157 fatalities since the pandemic began.

Mosaic Life Care reports just 27 COVID patients in its system - all of whom are being treated in St. Joseph.

Andrew County reports seven new cases for a total of 1,935. There have also been 19 COVID-related fatalities in the county.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports 909 cases. Atchison County, KS reports 1,467 and Brown County reports 1,185 total cases.

Statewide, Missouri reports 463,119 total cases and 7,117 total deaths.

Kansas reports 278,915 total cases and 3,895 deaths. Over 8,500 Kansans are hospitalized due to COVID-19 complications.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report 24 new cases of COVID-19 Thursday, but no new fatalities.Buchanan County has seen a total of 9,817 cases and 157 fatalities since the pandemic began.Mosaic Life Care reports just 27 COVID patients in its system - all of whom are being treated in St. Joseph.Andrew County reports seven new cases for a total of 1,935. There have also been 19 COVID-related fatalities in the county.Doniphan County, Kansas reports 909 cases. Atchison County, KS reports 1,467 and Brown County reports 1,185 total cases.Statewide, Missouri reports 463,119 total cases and 7,117 total deaths.Kansas reports 278,915 total cases and 3,895 deaths. Over 8,500 Kansans are hospitalized due to COVID-19 complications.

COVID-19 update: new infections and hospitalizations stay low in Buchanan County

The 2021 runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City continues to be below average.&nbsp;

Doug Kluck, the NOAA Regional Climate Services Director for the Central Region, says plains and mountain snowpack is lagging behind seasonal averages, and soil moisture continues to be much drier-than-normal.

"Almost the entire Missouri River basin has some form of drought indicated across it," he said.

January 2021 runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was 1.1 million acre-feet,&nbsp; or 141% of average. The above-average runoff was mainly due to above-normal temperatures melting plains snowpack and inhibiting river ice formation.

The 2021 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 89% of average. This forecast is based on soil moisture conditions, plains and mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks.

Kevin Grode, the Reservoir Regulation Team Lead for the Missouri River Basin Water Management, says below-average runoff is expected through a good portion of the summer as well.

"We are forecasting below average runoff during each month of the March through July period," Grode said. "That period is considered the high runoff portion of the year."

Gavins Point Dam releases will be maintained at the winter release rate of 17,000 cubic feet per second, but will be adjusted if needed in response to ice formation on the Missouri River below the Dam.

Kevin Lau with the National Weather Service's Missouri River Basin Forecast Center, says ice jams are still a possibility, and spring thunderstorms could also cause flooding in some spots.

"Ice jam flooding remains a possibility throughout the winter," Lau said. "As we near the end of April, we have to be thinking about thunderstorm activity, which is the driver of springtime flooding."

Current studies indicate that flow support for Missouri River navigation will be at full service level for the first half of the 2021 season, which starts April 1 at the mouth in St. Louis.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583233334844.jpeg" alt="Gavins Point Dam releases will be maintained at the winter release rate of 17,000 cubic feet per second, but will be adjusted if needed in response to ice formation on the Missouri River below the Dam." />
 <figcaption>Gavins Point Dam releases will be maintained at the winter release rate of 17,000 cubic feet per second, but will be adjusted if needed in response to ice formation on the Missouri River below the Dam.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe 2021 runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City continues to be below average.&nbsp;Doug Kluck, the NOAA Regional Climate Services Director for the Central Region, says plains and mountain snowpack is lagging behind seasonal averages, and soil moisture continues to be much drier-than-normal."Almost the entire Missouri River basin has some form of drought indicated across it," he said.January 2021 runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was 1.1 million acre-feet,&nbsp; or 141% of average. The above-average runoff was mainly due to above-normal temperatures melting plains snowpack and inhibiting river ice formation.The 2021 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 89% of average. This forecast is based on soil moisture conditions, plains and mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks.Kevin Grode, the Reservoir Regulation Team Lead for the Missouri River Basin Water Management, says below-average runoff is expected through a good portion of the summer as well."We are forecasting below average runoff during each month of the March through July period," Grode said. "That period is considered the high runoff portion of the year."Gavins Point Dam releases will be maintained at the winter release rate of 17,000 cubic feet per second, but will be adjusted if needed in response to ice formation on the Missouri River below the Dam.Kevin Lau with the National Weather Service's Missouri River Basin Forecast Center, says ice jams are still a possibility, and spring thunderstorms could also cause flooding in some spots."Ice jam flooding remains a possibility throughout the winter," Lau said. "As we near the end of April, we have to be thinking about thunderstorm activity, which is the driver of springtime flooding."Current studies indicate that flow support for Missouri River navigation will be at full service level for the first half of the 2021 season, which starts April 1 at the mouth in St. Louis.You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

Below average runoff expected in 2021 for upper Missouri River Basin

HARRISON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Thursday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Cruz driven by Trent A. Simon, 19, Centerville, IA, was northbound on Interstate 35 at Bethany.

The driver attempted to avoid a collision with another vehicle. The car slid on the snow covered road, traveled off the road and struck a guardrail. NTA ambulance transported Simon and Kevin I Martinez, 25, Centerville, to Harrison County Community Hospital. 

Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Thursday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Cruz driven by Trent A. Simon, 19, Centerville, IA, was northbound on Interstate 35 at Bethany.The driver attempted to avoid a collision with another vehicle. The car slid on the snow covered road, traveled off the road and struck a guardrail. NTA ambulance transported Simon and Kevin I Martinez, 25, Centerville, to Harrison County Community Hospital. Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Driver hospitalized after car slides on the snow 

DAVIESS COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Thursday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Nissan Murano driven by Lewis C. Buckner, 55, Ridgeway, was northbound on Interstate 35 four miles north of Pattonsburg.

The vehicle traveled off the road and struck a guardrail. NTA ambulance transported Buckner and a passenger Orvis D. Fountain, 68, Albany, to Harrison County Community Hospital.&nbsp; Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

DAVIESS COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Thursday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Nissan Murano driven by Lewis C. Buckner, 55, Ridgeway, was northbound on Interstate 35 four miles north of Pattonsburg.The vehicle traveled off the road and struck a guardrail. NTA ambulance transported Buckner and a passenger Orvis D. Fountain, 68, Albany, to Harrison County Community Hospital.&nbsp; Both were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

2 hospitalized after SUV strikes guardrail 

A second man has confessed to his role in an August drive-by
shooting in St. Joseph that killed a two-year-old girl.

Twenty-one-year-old Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard of St. Joseph pleaded
guilty to second degree murder this (THU) morning during a court appearance at
the Buchanan County Courthouse before Judge Daniel Kellogg.

Kimbrough-Ballard admitted he fired shots into another car,
stating he didn’t know Raelynn Craig was a passenger.

Earlier, 21-year-old Caimon Ramone Stillman of St. Joseph,
pleaded guilty for his role in the deadly shooting.

Both men fired shots into another car near the Frog Hop at 20th
and Messanie August 9th. The shots hit and wounded two adults in the
car, but also hit and killed Raelynn in a car seat in the back.

A third man involved in the shooting, 20-year-old Te’Avion Hawkins
of Platte City, is scheduled to appear in court later this month.

A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for Kimbrough-Ballard
for March 15th.

Stillman is scheduled to be sentenced April 23rd.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612461440518.jpeg" alt="Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard/Buchanan County Sheriff's Office photo" />
 <figcaption>Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard/Buchanan County Sheriff's Office photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA second man has confessed to his role in an August drive-by
shooting in St. Joseph that killed a two-year-old girl.Twenty-one-year-old Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard of St. Joseph pleaded
guilty to second degree murder this (THU) morning during a court appearance at
the Buchanan County Courthouse before Judge Daniel Kellogg.Kimbrough-Ballard admitted he fired shots into another car,
stating he didn’t know Raelynn Craig was a passenger.Earlier, 21-year-old Caimon Ramone Stillman of St. Joseph,
pleaded guilty for his role in the deadly shooting.Both men fired shots into another car near the Frog Hop at 20th
and Messanie August 9th. The shots hit and wounded two adults in the
car, but also hit and killed Raelynn in a car seat in the back.A third man involved in the shooting, 20-year-old Te’Avion Hawkins
of Platte City, is scheduled to appear in court later this month.A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for Kimbrough-Ballard
for March 15th.Stillman is scheduled to be sentenced April 23rd.

2nd man confesses to St. Joseph drive-by shooting that killed 2-year-old

DEKALB COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Thursday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Adam E. Altayeb Mohamed, 31, Durham, North Carolina, was northbound on Interstate 35 one mile north of Cameron. The truck began to slide, traveled off the road and struck an embankment.

Cameron ambulance transported Mohamed and a passenger Sudan O Hamdan Gamar, 29, High Point, NC., to Cameron Regional Medical Center.&nbsp; The passenger was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Thursday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Freightliner semi driven by Adam E. Altayeb Mohamed, 31, Durham, North Carolina, was northbound on Interstate 35 one mile north of Cameron. The truck began to slide, traveled off the road and struck an embankment.Cameron ambulance transported Mohamed and a passenger Sudan O Hamdan Gamar, 29, High Point, NC., to Cameron Regional Medical Center.&nbsp; The passenger was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

2 hospitalized after semi slides, strikes embankment

A 34-year-old St. Joseph woman shot herself in the leg,
suffering a non-life-threatening wound.

St. Joseph police report officers responded to a shots fired
call around 2:30 this morning in the 300 block of East Missouri. Officers spoke
with the two adults in the residence, both stating the shooting was accidental.
Children were present in the residence.

The woman sought treatment for the wound at the hospital.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 34-year-old St. Joseph woman shot herself in the leg,
suffering a non-life-threatening wound.St. Joseph police report officers responded to a shots fired
call around 2:30 this morning in the 300 block of East Missouri. Officers spoke
with the two adults in the residence, both stating the shooting was accidental.
Children were present in the residence.The woman sought treatment for the wound at the hospital.

St. Joseph woman wounded in accidental shooting

St. Joseph health officials report 33 new cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County Wednesday, but no new fatalities.

Buchanan County has reported 9,793 total cases and 157 fatalities since the pandemic began.

Mosaic Life Care continues to report an easing of COVID-19 hospitalizations. Mosaic says it's treating 28 COVID patients in its system Wednesday - all being treated in St. Joseph.

Andrew County reports 1,928 total cases with 19 deaths - no change from Tuesday.

Gentry and Harrison County each report 11 new cases Wednesday. Gentry County's case total stands at 765 - Harrison County's total is 983.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports eight new cases Wednesday for a total 909.

Statewide, Kansas reports 2,247 new cases and 86 new deaths since Monday. Missouri Wednesday reports over 1,233 new cases and 10 new deaths. There have been 7,098 fatalities linked to COVID-19 in Missouri.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report 33 new cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County Wednesday, but no new fatalities.Buchanan County has reported 9,793 total cases and 157 fatalities since the pandemic began.Mosaic Life Care continues to report an easing of COVID-19 hospitalizations. Mosaic says it's treating 28 COVID patients in its system Wednesday - all being treated in St. Joseph.Andrew County reports 1,928 total cases with 19 deaths - no change from Tuesday.Gentry and Harrison County each report 11 new cases Wednesday. Gentry County's case total stands at 765 - Harrison County's total is 983.Doniphan County, Kansas reports eight new cases Wednesday for a total 909.Statewide, Kansas reports 2,247 new cases and 86 new deaths since Monday. Missouri Wednesday reports over 1,233 new cases and 10 new deaths. There have been 7,098 fatalities linked to COVID-19 in Missouri.

33 new COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County Wednesday, no new fatalities

The Kansas City Chiefs support local health care workers.

Mosaic Life Care received two tickets to the Super Bowl. Two randomly selected caregivers, Dr. Louis Jamtgaard and Nurse Pat Howard, will attend the Super Bowl in Tampa this Sunday.

Dr. Jamtgaard says this opportunity means so much to him. 

"We've all been in this together. Especially with Pat being in the ICU, me in the emergency department, we're all kind of the continuum of taking care of a lot of these COVID patients that are coming in. It's just nice to have some recognition from the corporate world for a lot of the things we have been doing and I'm just really grateful overall," says Jamtgaard to St. Joseph Post. 

Dr. Jamtgaard says he was working his shift Friday when he received the news.   

"Two or three of the hospital Vice Presidents and administration came down and were looking for me, sometimes that could be a bad sign," says Jamtgaard. "Apparently they were there to let me know that I had won a ticket to the Super Bowl and they wanted to make sure that I'd be available to go."

Howard could not believe the phone call she received on her day off. 

"I said, 'Are you kidding me?' I thought it was kind of joke or something. I was like, 'I cannot believe that,'" says Howard. "I was truly blown away. It's like craziness. It was awesome."

Doctor Jamtgaard says his family is excited for him to have this experience. 

"Called my wife, and I was telling my parents and they were wondering how many people get to go with me but afterwards I think they were just excited for me because they've been apart of this pandemic too and experiencing everything so they said 'I'm glad that you are getting to go and enjoy it' so they were happy," says  Jamtgaard. 

Nurse Pat Howard says the hospital staff is a little jealous but excited for her to have this opportunity. 

"Several of my coworkers were all excited and then they say 'We're jealous too,'" says Howard. "We wish we could take all of our work family with us cause everybody has really risen to the task all this last year. Its been very challenging but I'm just happy to represent the Mosaic ICU nursing team."

Jamtgaard and Howard say they are looking forward to the experience this weekend. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612395367302.jpeg" alt="Nurse Pat Howard (left) and Dr. Louis Jamtgaard (right) Photo by Whitnee Ice." />
 <figcaption>Nurse Pat Howard (left) and Dr. Louis Jamtgaard (right) Photo by Whitnee Ice.</figcaption>
 </figure>By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs support local health care workers.Mosaic Life Care received two tickets to the Super Bowl. Two randomly selected caregivers, Dr. Louis Jamtgaard and Nurse Pat Howard, will attend the Super Bowl in Tampa this Sunday.Dr. Jamtgaard says this opportunity means so much to him. "We've all been in this together. Especially with Pat being in the ICU, me in the emergency department, we're all kind of the continuum of taking care of a lot of these COVID patients that are coming in. It's just nice to have some recognition from the corporate world for a lot of the things we have been doing and I'm just really grateful overall," says Jamtgaard to St. Joseph Post. Dr. Jamtgaard says he was working his shift Friday when he received the news. "Two or three of the hospital Vice Presidents and administration came down and were looking for me, sometimes that could be a bad sign," says Jamtgaard. "Apparently they were there to let me know that I had won a ticket to the Super Bowl and they wanted to make sure that I'd be available to go."Howard could not believe the phone call she received on her day off. "I said, 'Are you kidding me?' I thought it was kind of joke or something. I was like, 'I cannot believe that,'" says Howard. "I was truly blown away. It's like craziness. It was awesome."Doctor Jamtgaard says his family is excited for him to have this experience. "Called my wife, and I was telling my parents and they were wondering how many people get to go with me but afterwards I think they were just excited for me because they've been apart of this pandemic too and experiencing everything so they said 'I'm glad that you are getting to go and enjoy it' so they were happy," says Jamtgaard. Nurse Pat Howard says the hospital staff is a little jealous but excited for her to have this opportunity. "Several of my coworkers were all excited and then they say 'We're jealous too,'" says Howard. "We wish we could take all of our work family with us cause everybody has really risen to the task all this last year. Its been very challenging but I'm just happy to represent the Mosaic ICU nursing team."Jamtgaard and Howard say they are looking forward to the experience this weekend.

Mosaic Life Care received two tickets to the Super Bowl

New cases of COVID-19 and the number of people hospitalized with the virus' complications <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/2f97382c-02fb-4578-9dd5-8d8519e77498">have gone down over the last few weeks</a> in St. Joseph and Buchanan County.

The rollout of the vaccine and the availability of infusion treatments at area hospitals have helped provide relief. However, experts are hesitant to say when exactly life will return to the way it was prior to the pandemic.

Missouri Western science professor Dr. Gary Clapp, a COVID-19 advisor for the St. Joseph City Council, says the new strains of COVID that have spread in the U.K., South Africa and also the U.S., make it hard to predict what the future holds.

"The future is really crystal ball-like," Clapp said. "Which variant will be coming next and will we have to create another vaccine for it? My guess is, yes. There will be another vaccine coming around again next year and it'll be for the most predominant variant, and it won't be that different from the one we take right now."

New variants of the virus have been identified in 21 U.S. states, but not yet Missouri. Experts say the new strain can be up to 50 percent more contagious, but Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious diseases expert, says the more vaccine that gets out, the less chance the virus has of mutating.

While a new variant could re-infect people who've already had COVID-19, there's no evidence to suggest that the new variants are more deadly, or cause more intense symptoms, than the original virus.

Clapp says the best defenses are the ones already in use - face masks, social distancing and hand-washing.

"If you had it and survived it, chances are you'll survive the next one too," Clapp said. "So, that should be a good thought. But, mask up, y'all."

Many are hopeful that once COVID vaccines become more readily available to the general public in spring, life can mostly return to normal this summer.

Clapp says there's reason to be optimistic about summer, because viruses don't do well in UV light. While much progress has been made over the last month, Clapp says the next 30-60 days will be important to watch.

"If we look back to where we were 30 days ago," Clapp said, "we've made tremendous progress. So, before we jump out and say summer is the target, let's look at the next 30-60 days and reevaluate."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611966312972.jpeg" alt="The former Gordman's at the East Hills Shopping Center has been transformed into a mass vaccination site. Experts say the more vaccines that go out, the less chance the COVID-19 virus has of mutating, allowing for a quicker return to normal life. Photo by Whitnee Ice." />
 <figcaption>The former Gordman's at the East Hills Shopping Center has been transformed into a mass vaccination site. Experts say the more vaccines that go out, the less chance the COVID-19 virus has of mutating, allowing for a quicker return to normal life. Photo by Whitnee Ice.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostNew cases of COVID-19 and the number of people hospitalized with the virus' complications <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/2f97382c-02fb-4578-9dd5-8d8519e77498">have gone down over the last few weeks</a> in St. Joseph and Buchanan County.The rollout of the vaccine and the availability of infusion treatments at area hospitals have helped provide relief. However, experts are hesitant to say when exactly life will return to the way it was prior to the pandemic.Missouri Western science professor Dr. Gary Clapp, a COVID-19 advisor for the St. Joseph City Council, says the new strains of COVID that have spread in the U.K., South Africa and also the U.S., make it hard to predict what the future holds."The future is really crystal ball-like," Clapp said. "Which variant will be coming next and will we have to create another vaccine for it? My guess is, yes. There will be another vaccine coming around again next year and it'll be for the most predominant variant, and it won't be that different from the one we take right now."New variants of the virus have been identified in 21 U.S. states, but not yet Missouri. Experts say the new strain can be up to 50 percent more contagious, but Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious diseases expert, says the more vaccine that gets out, the less chance the virus has of mutating.While a new variant could re-infect people who've already had COVID-19, there's no evidence to suggest that the new variants are more deadly, or cause more intense symptoms, than the original virus.Clapp says the best defenses are the ones already in use - face masks, social distancing and hand-washing."If you had it and survived it, chances are you'll survive the next one too," Clapp said. "So, that should be a good thought. But, mask up, y'all."Many are hopeful that once COVID vaccines become more readily available to the general public in spring, life can mostly return to normal this summer.Clapp says there's reason to be optimistic about summer, because viruses don't do well in UV light. While much progress has been made over the last month, Clapp says the next 30-60 days will be important to watch."If we look back to where we were 30 days ago," Clapp said, "we've made tremendous progress. So, before we jump out and say summer is the target, let's look at the next 30-60 days and reevaluate."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Missouri Western professor encouraged by local COVID trends, talks return to normalcy

A St. Joseph man
had prescription drugs and his car stolen last night after two men, one
armed, approached him at the parking lot near 1600 Brookside.

St. Joseph police
say the man was not harmed during the confrontation.

A man, armed with
a gun, forced him out of his car while the second jumped into the driver’s seat
and the two drove off.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph man
had prescription drugs and his car stolen last night after two men, one
armed, approached him at the parking lot near 1600 Brookside.St. Joseph police
say the man was not harmed during the confrontation.A man, armed with
a gun, forced him out of his car while the second jumped into the driver’s seat
and the two drove off.The investigation continues.

Armed robbers take off with St. Joseph man's drugs and car

Taxes are due with filing season just around the corner. This year, the IRS is dealing with a tax year like no other, a year that will complicate filing just a bit.

The IRS has delayed the tax filing start date to February 12th, because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Still, IRS spokesperson Michael Devine says the tax deadline remains the same:  April 15th:

"If people are having problems and they do have a need to wait past April 15th, because they don't have a critically important tax document, then it's very easy to get a six month extension of time to file that tax return. Again, that's an extension of time to file not an extension of time to pay, so any taxes that you owe are going to be due on April 15th," says Michael Devine to St. Joseph Post. 

Devine says the IRS website is a great source of information. 

"We think that irs.gov is just a really great source of information, for anyone who has questions or just an interest in taxes, because all the things that are available are there from individual taxes to exempt organizations, to businesses," says Devine. 

Devine says the number of visits to the website increased significantly. 

"The number of visits to our website irs.gov, went up by about 160%.," says Devine. "To more than 1.6 billion visits, so anyone who had a tax question or needed tax help found that going to our website was a good thing to do."

Devine recommends using tax software this year. 

"Filing electronically is going to lead you through a series of questions and answers, so that you won't miss a tax credit or deduction that you're eligible for, especially the recovery rebate credit," says Devine.

This year's tax season looks a little different due to the Coronavirus pandemic. 

Devine says there are steps to take if you did not receive any or all of your economic impact payment you were eligible for. 

"You can claim that on your 2020 tax return as the recovery rebate credit. It's really pretty simple to do," says Devine. "You will need the notice 1444 that you received, if you received a payment, that will tell you exactly how much you got."

Devine reminds tax payers unemployment compensation and unemployment benefits are both taxable income. 

"It must be included as income on your tax return and that's on schedule one and you will know how much that is because you would have received a form 1099-G, for government. You would get that if also you received a federal or state tax refund," says Devine. 

Devine says he expects 2.8 Million returns from Missouri and 1.3 Million from Kansas. 

By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostIt's tax season again.Taxes are due with filing season just around the corner. This year, the IRS is dealing with a tax year like no other, a year that will complicate filing just a bit.The IRS has delayed the tax filing start date to February 12th, because of the coronavirus pandemic.Still, IRS spokesperson Michael Devine says the tax deadline remains the same: April 15th:"If people are having problems and they do have a need to wait past April 15th, because they don't have a critically important tax document, then it's very easy to get a six month extension of time to file that tax return. Again, that's an extension of time to file not an extension of time to pay, so any taxes that you owe are going to be due on April 15th," says Michael Devine to St. Joseph Post. Devine says the IRS website is a great source of information. "We think that irs.gov is just a really great source of information, for anyone who has questions or just an interest in taxes, because all the things that are available are there from individual taxes to exempt organizations, to businesses," says Devine. Devine says the number of visits to the website increased significantly. "The number of visits to our website irs.gov, went up by about 160%.," says Devine. "To more than 1.6 billion visits, so anyone who had a tax question or needed tax help found that going to our website was a good thing to do."Devine recommends using tax software this year. "Filing electronically is going to lead you through a series of questions and answers, so that you won't miss a tax credit or deduction that you're eligible for, especially the recovery rebate credit," says Devine.This year's tax season looks a little different due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Devine says there are steps to take if you did not receive any or all of your economic impact payment you were eligible for. "You can claim that on your 2020 tax return as the recovery rebate credit. It's really pretty simple to do," says Devine. "You will need the notice 1444 that you received, if you received a payment, that will tell you exactly how much you got."Devine reminds tax payers unemployment compensation and unemployment benefits are both taxable income. "It must be included as income on your tax return and that's on schedule one and you will know how much that is because you would have received a form 1099-G, for government. You would get that if also you received a federal or state tax refund," says Devine. Devine says he expects 2.8 Million returns from Missouri and 1.3 Million from Kansas.

Tax filing season is here again

The COVID-19 pandemic is by no means over, but the city of St. Joseph and Buchanan County seem to be trending in a positive direction in several critical areas.

Dr. Gary Clapp, a math and science professor at Missouri Western State University, has also been an advisor for the St. Joseph city council during the pandemic, showing them graphs and data to help them set city policy.

Clapp says the number of new infections and hospitalizations have been steadily dropping over the last few weeks.

"We're just continuing to go down," he said. "The daily average of new cases has dropped up from way in the 70s to 25 or less even. Everything is trending in the right direction right now."

As of Tuesday, 156 people in Buchanan County have died due to COVID-19 complications for a daily death average of less than one since the pandemic began last March.

Clapp says the death rate has fluctuated throughout that time.

The hospitalization rate had been going up in late fall, with Mosaic Life Care reporting 94 COVID-19 patients in late November. There were still 86 COVID patients in the Mosaic system on Jan. 5.

As of Tuesday, that figure dropped to 29.

Clapp says the key to fewer hospitalizations locally is the availability of infusion treatments - chiefly Bamlanivimab and Regeneron. Remdesivir has also proven to be a successful treatment.

"This infusion therapy they're using, Bamlanivimab and Remdesivir, both are showing extremely good signs of slowing if not stopping the progression of the disease," Clapp said, "before your lungs fill up (with fluid) and turn to mush and you can't breathe."

Another data point&nbsp;in Buchanan County that's encouraging&nbsp; - the COVID test positivity rate. After being above 20 percent in late fall and early winter, the St. Joseph Health Department reports Monday that it has fallen to 8.9 percent.

"If we look back to where we were just 30 days ago, we've made tremendous progress," Dr. Clapp said. "But before we jump out and say summer is the target (for getting back to normal), let's take a look at the next 30 days and reevaluate and do that again in 60 days."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1596730563292.jpeg" alt="Hospitalizations at Mosaic Life Care have been going down for the last several weeks. The positivity rate and number of new, daily cases have also been on the decline in Buchanan County and St. Joseph. File photo." />
 <figcaption>Hospitalizations at Mosaic Life Care have been going down for the last several weeks. The positivity rate and number of new, daily cases have also been on the decline in Buchanan County and St. Joseph. File photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe COVID-19 pandemic is by no means over, but the city of St. Joseph and Buchanan County seem to be trending in a positive direction in several critical areas.Dr. Gary Clapp, a math and science professor at Missouri Western State University, has also been an advisor for the St. Joseph city council during the pandemic, showing them graphs and data to help them set city policy.Clapp says the number of new infections and hospitalizations have been steadily dropping over the last few weeks."We're just continuing to go down," he said. "The daily average of new cases has dropped up from way in the 70s to 25 or less even. Everything is trending in the right direction right now."As of Tuesday, 156 people in Buchanan County have died due to COVID-19 complications for a daily death average of less than one since the pandemic began last March.Clapp says the death rate has fluctuated throughout that time.The hospitalization rate had been going up in late fall, with Mosaic Life Care reporting 94 COVID-19 patients in late November. There were still 86 COVID patients in the Mosaic system on Jan. 5.As of Tuesday, that figure dropped to 29.Clapp says the key to fewer hospitalizations locally is the availability of infusion treatments - chiefly Bamlanivimab and Regeneron. Remdesivir has also proven to be a successful treatment."This infusion therapy they're using, Bamlanivimab and Remdesivir, both are showing extremely good signs of slowing if not stopping the progression of the disease," Clapp said, "before your lungs fill up (with fluid) and turn to mush and you can't breathe."Another data point&nbsp;in Buchanan County that's encouraging&nbsp; - the COVID test positivity rate. After being above 20 percent in late fall and early winter, the St. Joseph Health Department reports Monday that it has fallen to 8.9 percent."If we look back to where we were just 30 days ago, we've made tremendous progress," Dr. Clapp said. "But before we jump out and say summer is the target (for getting back to normal), let's take a look at the next 30 days and reevaluate and do that again in 60 days."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU Professor:  St. Joseph, Buchanan CO COVID numbers "trending in right direction"

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Tuesday in Clinton County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Freightliner Cascadia driven by Leonard E. Hailey, 62, Tecumseh, OK., was northbound on Interstate 35 three miles north of Lathrop.

The driver lost control of the vehicle. It left the road, struck a ditch and a fence.

Tri-County ambulance transported Haley to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Tuesday in Clinton County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Freightliner Cascadia driven by Leonard E. Hailey, 62, Tecumseh, OK., was northbound on Interstate 35 three miles north of Lathrop.The driver lost control of the vehicle. It left the road, struck a ditch and a fence.Tri-County ambulance transported Haley to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Driver hospitalized after semi strikes ditch, fence

St. Joseph health officials report one new COVD-19 related death Tuesday. The victim was a female in her 80s.

Officials also report 17 new cases Tuesday. Buchanan County&nbsp; has now recorded 9,760 cases with 157 deaths.

Mosaic Life Care reports 29 COVID-19 patients in its system Tuesday - 28 are in St. Joseph and one in Maryville.

Andrew County health officials report right new cases Tuesday for a total of 1,928. They’ve also had 19 deaths.

Statewide, Missouri reports 890 cases Tuesday for a total of 460,487. There have also been 7,088 deaths related to COVID in Missouri since the pandemic began.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports a total of 901 cases. Kansas reports a total of 276,668 cases and 3,809 deaths.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report one new COVD-19 related death Tuesday. The victim was a female in her 80s.Officials also report 17 new cases Tuesday. Buchanan County&nbsp; has now recorded 9,760 cases with 157 deaths.Mosaic Life Care reports 29 COVID-19 patients in its system Tuesday - 28 are in St. Joseph and one in Maryville.Andrew County health officials report right new cases Tuesday for a total of 1,928. They’ve also had 19 deaths.Statewide, Missouri reports 890 cases Tuesday for a total of 460,487. There have also been 7,088 deaths related to COVID in Missouri since the pandemic began.Doniphan County, Kansas reports a total of 901 cases. Kansas reports a total of 276,668 cases and 3,809 deaths.

One COVID-related death in Buchanan County Tuesday, hospitalizations, new infections low

A 21-year-old St. Joseph man has pleaded guilty in the
drive-by shooting that killed a two-year-old.

Caimon Ramone Stillman admitted he was involved in the August
9th shooting in which Raelynn Craig was shot and killed.

Prosecutors accused Stillman and two others of being in the
Hyundai Elantra which pulled up to the Dodge Caliber near the Frog Hop at 20th
and Messanie and opened fire. The shooting left Raelynn dead. Two adults in the
car were wounded.

Stillman has a sentencing hearing scheduled for April 23rd.

Two others facing second-degree murder charges have court appearances
scheduled for this month.

A court hearing for Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard is set for
this Thursday.

Te’Avion Hawkins has a court hearing scheduled for
February 25th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599071500290.jpeg" alt="Caimon Ramone Stillman/Buchanan County photo" />
 <figcaption>Caimon Ramone Stillman/Buchanan County photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 21-year-old St. Joseph man has pleaded guilty in the
drive-by shooting that killed a two-year-old.Caimon Ramone Stillman admitted he was involved in the August
9th shooting in which Raelynn Craig was shot and killed.Prosecutors accused Stillman and two others of being in the
Hyundai Elantra which pulled up to the Dodge Caliber near the Frog Hop at 20th
and Messanie and opened fire. The shooting left Raelynn dead. Two adults in the
car were wounded.Stillman has a sentencing hearing scheduled for April 23rd.Two others facing second-degree murder charges have court appearances
scheduled for this month.A court hearing for Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard is set for
this Thursday.Te’Avion Hawkins has a court hearing scheduled for
February 25th.

21-year-old pleads guilty in St. Joseph drive-by shooting that killed 2-year-old

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Tuesday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Ford Taurus driven by Kimberly F.&nbsp; Potts, 41, Cameron, was westbound on U.S. 36.

The Ford rear-ended a 2015 International semi driven by James W. Hall, 50, Anderson, who has stopped at the intersection of with Interstate 35 in Cameron.

Cameron Ambulance transported Potts to Cameron Regional Medical Center.&nbsp; Hall was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Tuesday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Ford Taurus driven by Kimberly F.&nbsp; Potts, 41, Cameron, was westbound on U.S. 36.The Ford rear-ended a 2015 International semi driven by James W. Hall, 50, Anderson, who has stopped at the intersection of with Interstate 35 in Cameron.Cameron Ambulance transported Potts to Cameron Regional Medical Center.&nbsp; Hall was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Cameron woman hospitalized after rear-end crash

St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Patt Lilly says St.
Joseph voters have a big decision to make in April:&nbsp; whether to approve the $107 million school bond
issue.

Lilly says it is vital to any community to have a strong
educational system.

“To the extent that this investment improves education for all
in the community, I think certainly would be a great opportunity for us as
residents of St. Joseph,” Lilly tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

Voters will decide whether the St. Joseph School District
borrows the money to convert Benton and Lafayette High Schools into middle
schools as well as build a new high school to go along with Central High
School. Funds will pay for other improvements in the St. Joseph School District.

Lilly says schools have a major impact on the local economy.

“And I think that’s definitely something that we as a
community have to commit ourselves to is improving our public schools and
improving the educational attainment in the community,” Lilly says.

Lilly says educational improvements fit into the long-range
strategy of moving St. Joseph forward.

“The reality is, we have to invest in our schools, we have to
invest in our teachers and make sure they have the opportunity to do the jobs that
they have,” Lilly says. “And, I think the bottom line is improving our educational
system is critical for the future of St. Joseph.”

Lilly says St. Joseph has lost residents to other communities,
such as North Kansas City, due to how they perceive the local school system.
Lilly says the decision to live in Kansas City rather than St. Joseph can often
be made based on the perception of the quality of schools.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Patt Lilly says St.
Joseph voters have a big decision to make in April:&nbsp; whether to approve the $107 million school bond
issue.Lilly says it is vital to any community to have a strong
educational system.“To the extent that this investment improves education for all
in the community, I think certainly would be a great opportunity for us as
residents of St. Joseph,” Lilly tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Voters will decide whether the St. Joseph School District
borrows the money to convert Benton and Lafayette High Schools into middle
schools as well as build a new high school to go along with Central High
School. Funds will pay for other improvements in the St. Joseph School District.Lilly says schools have a major impact on the local economy.“And I think that’s definitely something that we as a
community have to commit ourselves to is improving our public schools and
improving the educational attainment in the community,” Lilly says.Lilly says educational improvements fit into the long-range
strategy of moving St. Joseph forward.“The reality is, we have to invest in our schools, we have to
invest in our teachers and make sure they have the opportunity to do the jobs that
they have,” Lilly says. “And, I think the bottom line is improving our educational
system is critical for the future of St. Joseph.”Lilly says St. Joseph has lost residents to other communities,
such as North Kansas City, due to how they perceive the local school system.
Lilly says the decision to live in Kansas City rather than St. Joseph can often
be made based on the perception of the quality of schools.

Chamber President says St. Joseph school bond issue presents voters with big decision

Orthopedic injured patients can now use an app to get in direct contact with a local orthopedic specialist. 

Dr. Brett Miller of St. Joseph founded an app called Hurt! The app helps navigate non-emergency orthopedic situations by connecting users to orthopedic specialists in their area. The app gets injured patients fast and free expert advice right away.

Miller says he wants to help people skip unnecessary emergency room trips. 

"Ninety percent of orthopedic injuries that go to the ER, don't need to be there, so they're discharged to home," says Miller.

Miller says the app connects the patient to a local orthopedic specialist who will help them assess their injury. 

"We gave them that first line triage advice that kept them away from the urgent care and the ER," says Miller. 

Miller says it not only can help athletes, but it can also assist businesses. 

"Had our first Hurt! business client this morning where we are helping businesses save money by appropriately directing their employees out of expensive emergency rooms and into the right doctors offices from the beginning," says Miller. 

Miller says a typical orthopedic injury visit to the emergency room costs around $2,000.

Hurt! will help patients save money, get the patients back on their feet faster, and decompress emergency rooms.

By WHITNEE ICE St. Joseph PostOrthopedic injured patients can now use an app to get in direct contact with a local orthopedic specialist. Dr. Brett Miller of St. Joseph founded an app called Hurt! The app helps navigate non-emergency orthopedic situations by connecting users to orthopedic specialists in their area. The app gets injured patients fast and free expert advice right away.Miller says he wants to help people skip unnecessary emergency room trips. "Ninety percent of orthopedic injuries that go to the ER, don't need to be there, so they're discharged to home," says Miller.Miller says the app connects the patient to a local orthopedic specialist who will help them assess their injury. "We gave them that first line triage advice that kept them away from the urgent care and the ER," says Miller. Miller says it not only can help athletes, but it can also assist businesses. "Had our first Hurt! business client this morning where we are helping businesses save money by appropriately directing their employees out of expensive emergency rooms and into the right doctors offices from the beginning," says Miller. Miller says a typical orthopedic injury visit to the emergency room costs around $2,000.Hurt! will help patients save money, get the patients back on their feet faster, and decompress emergency rooms.

St. Joseph doctor announces new app for orthopedic injuries

NODAWAY COUNTY–One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Monday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Ford F150 driven by Timothy M. Mackey, 62, Maryville, was northbound on U.S. 71 one mile south of Maryville.&nbsp;

The pickup traveled off the&nbsp; road, struck a snow embankment, traveled across a cross-over, struck another snow embankment, continued through the median into the southbound lanes and came to rest in the median.

A private vehicle transported Mackey to Mosaic in Maryville. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY–One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Monday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Ford F150 driven by Timothy M. Mackey, 62, Maryville, was northbound on U.S. 71 one mile south of Maryville.&nbsp;The pickup traveled off the&nbsp; road, struck a snow embankment, traveled across a cross-over, struck another snow embankment, continued through the median into the southbound lanes and came to rest in the median.A private vehicle transported Mackey to Mosaic in Maryville. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Maryville man hospitalized after pickup crash 

St. Joseph health officials report two more COVID-19 related deaths in Buchanan County since Friday.

The two victims were women - one in her 70s and another in her 80s. The Buchanan County death toll now stands at 156. There have also been 56 more cases in Buchanan County since Friday, including 32 Monday, for a total of 9,743.

Mosaic Life Care reports 32 patients in its system Monday. There are 31 patients in the St. Joseph hospital and one in Albany.

Andrew County reports nine new cases since Friday for a total of 1,920. They've also had 18 fatalities related to COVID since the pandemic started.

Statewide, Missouri reports 459,597 total cases (+3,067 since Friday) and 6,748 total deaths (+9 since Friday).

Since Friday, Kansas has seen 1,983 new cases (276,668 total) and 30 new deaths (3,809 total). Over 8,400 Kansans are hospitalized due to COVID complications.

Doniphan County reports 901 cases (+7), Atchison County, KS 1,449 (+17) and Brown County has seen 1,179 total cases of coronavirus (+3).

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report two more COVID-19 related deaths in Buchanan County since Friday.The two victims were women - one in her 70s and another in her 80s. The Buchanan County death toll now stands at 156. There have also been 56 more cases in Buchanan County since Friday, including 32 Monday, for a total of 9,743.Mosaic Life Care reports 32 patients in its system Monday. There are 31 patients in the St. Joseph hospital and one in Albany.Andrew County reports nine new cases since Friday for a total of 1,920. They've also had 18 fatalities related to COVID since the pandemic started.Statewide, Missouri reports 459,597 total cases (+3,067 since Friday) and 6,748 total deaths (+9 since Friday).Since Friday, Kansas has seen 1,983 new cases (276,668 total) and 30 new deaths (3,809 total). Over 8,400 Kansans are hospitalized due to COVID complications.Doniphan County reports 901 cases (+7), Atchison County, KS 1,449 (+17) and Brown County has seen 1,179 total cases of coronavirus (+3).

Two more COVID-19 related deaths in Buchanan County since Friday

The Doniphan County Health Department in Kansas is urging patience as they continue to administer their, so far, limited supply of COVID-19 vaccine.

Doniphan County is currently vaccinating its Phase 2 population. This includes people who are 65 and older, high-contact critical workers, people who've been in congregate settings and any previously unvaccinated medical personnel and long-term care residents.

Doniphan County Health Administrator Sheryl Pierce says the health department is starting to vaccinate school personnel this week and next. She says the wait time on a vaccine depends on a variety of factors.

"Just depends on whether you're a teacher or 65 or older," Pierce said. "Typically, it's going to be a 1-2 week period. We get limited dosages and we have a very long list of people 65 and older."

Doniphan County residents who are eligible for a vaccine can call 785-985-3591 to get put on a waiting list.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Doniphan County Health Department in Kansas is urging patience as they continue to administer their, so far, limited supply of COVID-19 vaccine.Doniphan County is currently vaccinating its Phase 2 population. This includes people who are 65 and older, high-contact critical workers, people who've been in congregate settings and any previously unvaccinated medical personnel and long-term care residents.Doniphan County Health Administrator Sheryl Pierce says the health department is starting to vaccinate school personnel this week and next. She says the wait time on a vaccine depends on a variety of factors."Just depends on whether you're a teacher or 65 or older," Pierce said. "Typically, it's going to be a 1-2 week period. We get limited dosages and we have a very long list of people 65 and older."Doniphan County residents who are eligible for a vaccine can call 785-985-3591 to get put on a waiting list.Of the 7,600 people who live in Doniphan County, around 1,500 of those residents are above the age of 65, according to the 2019 U.S. Census. To date, Doniphan County has vaccinated a total of 260 people."Certainly, we thought we'd be getting a lot more doses than this," Pierce admitted. "That's what makes it difficult - not knowing how many doses we're going to get. So, we can't really schedule out very far in advance."Over 185,000 Kansans have been vaccinated so far, or 6.4% of the population. Doniphan County has reported over 900 cases of COVID-19 since the pandemic began last March.You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

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