A Missouri Western State University vice president says
helping prepare students for employment must go beyond academics.

Dean of Students Brett Bruner says internships still play an
important role in getting students ready for the working world.

“We encourage all of our students to do internships,” Bruner
tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ 
Hotline. “They’re part of that applied learning experiences. There are some
students who will do multiple internships throughout their time.”

Bruner says a key to preparing a college student for the
working world is teaching the “soft skills,” such as how to work as a member of
a team and how to communicate effectively. He says those are learned in social
settings, such as working within organizations on campus.

Bruner says the college has a renewed vibe now that students
have returned to the St. Joseph campus after a year of virtual learning due to
the coronavirus pandemic.

“Our students are excited to be back on campus,” Bruner says “They’re
excited for the student experience. They were excited to see a lively event of
homecoming activities that took place in October. My staff and I are continuing
to ask that question:&nbsp; what’s the pulse on
the students and how can we continue to enhance that experience?”

Bruner says his office is actively seeking experiences that
will make for a more rounded student.

“We are taking a group of students on an alternative spring
break experience,” Bruner says. “So, we’re going to take students to
Starkville, Mississippi during spring break and build a house for Habitat for
Humanity at Starkville, Mississippi. They’re also bringing a group of students
to a leadership challenge competition and so we have five students we’ll be
taking to Washburn University in Topeka in March to compete against other
college students.”

Bruner says those experiences and just the day-to-day
interaction with other campus groups help students prepare for the working
world.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA Missouri Western State University vice president says
helping prepare students for employment must go beyond academics.Dean of Students Brett Bruner says internships still play an
important role in getting students ready for the working world.“We encourage all of our students to do internships,” Bruner
tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ 
Hotline. “They’re part of that applied learning experiences. There are some
students who will do multiple internships throughout their time.”Bruner says a key to preparing a college student for the
working world is teaching the “soft skills,” such as how to work as a member of
a team and how to communicate effectively. He says those are learned in social
settings, such as working within organizations on campus.Bruner says the college has a renewed vibe now that students
have returned to the St. Joseph campus after a year of virtual learning due to
the coronavirus pandemic.“Our students are excited to be back on campus,” Bruner says “They’re
excited for the student experience. They were excited to see a lively event of
homecoming activities that took place in October. My staff and I are continuing
to ask that question:&nbsp; what’s the pulse on
the students and how can we continue to enhance that experience?”Bruner says his office is actively seeking experiences that
will make for a more rounded student.“We are taking a group of students on an alternative spring
break experience,” Bruner says. “So, we’re going to take students to
Starkville, Mississippi during spring break and build a house for Habitat for
Humanity at Starkville, Mississippi. They’re also bringing a group of students
to a leadership challenge competition and so we have five students we’ll be
taking to Washburn University in Topeka in March to compete against other
college students.”Bruner says those experiences and just the day-to-day
interaction with other campus groups help students prepare for the working
world.

Preparing college students for working world goes beyond books

KANSAS CITY —A judge on Friday sentenced a 61-year-old Pleasant Hill man to consecutive life sentences for the fatal May 2018 road rage incident, the stabbing of Cody M. Harter on an interstate roadside in Lee's Summit, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

In August, a jury convicted Nicholas M. Webb, 62, of Murder 2nd Degree and Armed Criminal Action charges. On Friday, a Jackson County judge on Friday sentenced Webb to life in prison for the Murder 2nd Degree conviction and life in prison on the Armed Criminal Action conviction. He set those sentences to run consecutively.

According to court records, Lee's Summit Police officers responded to Interstate 470 in the area of Colbern Road on a reported man on the ground. They found the victim with a large wound. The victim's vehicle was still at the scene. Witnesses and surveillance video of the victim's and the suspect's vehicles led police to the suspect. 

Lee's Summit police took the defendant into custody. The defendant told police he had exchanged words with driver of a truck and acknowledged getting out of his vehicle. He also stated the victim looked familiar. Lee's Summit police also found that Webb had been arrested in Liberty on the same day as the homicide. Information from that arrest showed Webb had a knife in his pants pocket.

As an Air National Guardsman, Harter had served in Iraq and Qatar and helped with hurricane relief in Houston and Puerto Rico.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628246838266.png" alt="Webb-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Webb-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A judge on Friday sentenced a 61-year-old Pleasant Hill man to consecutive life sentences for the fatal May 2018 road rage incident, the stabbing of Cody M. Harter on an interstate roadside in Lee's Summit, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.In August, a jury convicted Nicholas M. Webb, 62, of Murder 2nd Degree and Armed Criminal Action charges. On Friday, a Jackson County judge on Friday sentenced Webb to life in prison for the Murder 2nd Degree conviction and life in prison on the Armed Criminal Action conviction. He set those sentences to run consecutively.According to court records, Lee's Summit Police officers responded to Interstate 470 in the area of Colbern Road on a reported man on the ground. They found the victim with a large wound. The victim's vehicle was still at the scene. Witnesses and surveillance video of the victim's and the suspect's vehicles led police to the suspect. Lee's Summit police took the defendant into custody. The defendant told police he had exchanged words with driver of a truck and acknowledged getting out of his vehicle. He also stated the victim looked familiar. Lee's Summit police also found that Webb had been arrested in Liberty on the same day as the homicide. Information from that arrest showed Webb had a knife in his pants pocket.As an Air National Guardsman, Harter had served in Iraq and Qatar and helped with hurricane relief in Houston and Puerto Rico.

Man sentenced for road-rage killing of St. Joseph airman

ANDREW COUNTY —A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Sunday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser driven by a 17-year-old Savannah boy was southbound on Business 71 three miles south of Savannah.

The vehicle traveled off the road and began to slide. It returned to the road, traveled into the median and overturned.

A private vehicle transported the teen to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —A Missouri teen was injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Sunday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser driven by a 17-year-old Savannah boy was southbound on Business 71 three miles south of Savannah.The vehicle traveled off the road and began to slide. It returned to the road, traveled into the median and overturned.A private vehicle transported the teen to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Savannah teen injured after vehicle overturns

BUCHANAN COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Friday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Saturn Vue driven by Glen A. Walker, 46, Country Club, was northbound on I-229 just south of MO 752.&nbsp;

The vehicle traveled off the road and struck a guardrail.&nbsp; Buchanan County EMS transported Walker to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Friday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Saturn Vue driven by Glen A. Walker, 46, Country Club, was northbound on I-229 just south of MO 752.&nbsp;The vehicle traveled off the road and struck a guardrail.&nbsp; Buchanan County EMS transported Walker to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Country Club man injured after SUV strikes guardrail

Oregon and Forest City in Holt County, Missouri are under water boil orders as power outages have created difficulties with their cities' water supplies.

Wind damage from Wednesday's storms caused prolonged power outages across northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas, including Holt County, where as of Friday afternoon, 654 Evergy customers were still without power.

South Holt Schools were closed both Thursday and Friday, though power has been restored to most of the city of Oregon and the water supply restored via generator.

South Holt's basketball games against North Nodaway are on as scheduled for Friday as well.

The Holt County Sheriff's Office says power is expected to be fully restored sometime this weekend, though the exact timeline remains unclear.

Over 6,300 people across Missouri and Kansas remained without power as of Friday afternoon, including 405 in Buchanan County.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostOregon and Forest City in Holt County, Missouri are under water boil orders as power outages have created difficulties with their cities' water supplies.Wind damage from Wednesday's storms caused prolonged power outages across northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas, including Holt County, where as of Friday afternoon, 654 Evergy customers were still without power.South Holt Schools were closed both Thursday and Friday, though power has been restored to most of the city of Oregon and the water supply restored via generator.South Holt's basketball games against North Nodaway are on as scheduled for Friday as well.The Holt County Sheriff's Office says power is expected to be fully restored sometime this weekend, though the exact timeline remains unclear.Over 6,300 people across Missouri and Kansas remained without power as of Friday afternoon, including 405 in Buchanan County.

Oregon, Forest City under boil orders as power, water issues persist

PLATTE COUNTY — Two people from St. Joseph were injured in a four vehicle accident just before 6p.m. Thursday in Platte County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Buick driven by Trasi L. Sorrells, 44, Kansas City, was southbound on Interstate 29 just south of Parvin Road.

The Buick rear-ended a 2014 Ford driven by Aaron M. McGaughy, 50, St. Joseph, in traffic congestion. A southbound 2009 Jeep driven by Chicka J. Ikwuwunna, 65, Kansas City then rear-ended the Buick. A 2010 Hyundai driven by Peggy L. Frerking, 77, Concordia, Mo., then rear-ended the Hyundai.

EMS transported McGaughy, a passenger in the Ford Dawn M, McGaughy, 48, St. Joseph, Sorrells and Frerking to North Kansas City Hospital. Ikwuwunna was not injured.&nbsp; All were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

PLATTE COUNTY — Two people from St. Joseph were injured in a four vehicle accident just before 6p.m. Thursday in Platte County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Buick driven by Trasi L. Sorrells, 44, Kansas City, was southbound on Interstate 29 just south of Parvin Road.The Buick rear-ended a 2014 Ford driven by Aaron M. McGaughy, 50, St. Joseph, in traffic congestion. A southbound 2009 Jeep driven by Chicka J. Ikwuwunna, 65, Kansas City then rear-ended the Buick. A 2010 Hyundai driven by Peggy L. Frerking, 77, Concordia, Mo., then rear-ended the Hyundai.EMS transported McGaughy, a passenger in the Ford Dawn M, McGaughy, 48, St. Joseph, Sorrells and Frerking to North Kansas City Hospital. Ikwuwunna was not injured.&nbsp; All were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

St. Joseph couple injured after 4-vehicle rear-end crash

In the midst of a historic blood shortage, the American Red Cross is hoping that a popular holiday promotion will bring donors out.

Red Cross spokesman Joe Zydlo says that the annual exclusive holiday long sleeved shirt will be available starting today.  Zydlo says he's been receiving calls for some time now about when the shirts will be available, adding that with the popularity they are even extending the time you can get them this year.

"They seem to really respond to it," Zydlo tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Typically we might run a promotion with this long sleeve shirt, in the past, it may only last maybe a week to 10 days, this time we're extending it longer, from December 17th through January 2nd into the beginning of the year for people to get it, so it's while supplies last, so make an appointment." 

Zydlo says this years long sleeved shirt has a beautiful design on the front and is dark blue. 

Zydlo says that incentives such as these shirts or the Amazon gift cards are popular with some donors, but at the end of the day giving blood should be about the goodness in your heart

"It's not going to be this big incentive, you're not getting multiple dollars or whatever to donate things, it's more so you're doing it because of the goodness in your heart to donate with the Red Cross," Zydlo says. "We have some of those incentives, we're grateful for Amazon.com, working with the NFL on some of these partnerships."

The Red Cross partnered last year with the NFL to send a lucky donor to the Super Bowl, and Zydlo says that is in the works again this year as an incentive come January.

Zydlo says the Red Cross is constantly working at coming up with new incentives to bring donors out, because they see some donors respond well to them.

"You know we try to come up with these different incentives, and there are people that respond with it," Zydlo says. "I will tell you, throughout the region, throughout Missouri and being based in St. Louis, I work with the Cardinals and the Blues on blood drives every year, and there are people specifically, that donate once or twice a year because they are a die hard Cardinal fan, or a die hard Blues fan, and they want that t-shirt."

And Zydlo says that they are not afraid to tell him whether they like that shirt or not, so he works hard with the design team to come up with a good product that donors will want.

To find out more about this years holiday shirt as well as find where you can donate blood, you can click <a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639695657884.png" alt="This years exclusive holiday shirt that donors will receive for donating between December 17th and January 2nd/ Photo courtesy of the American Red Cross" />
 <figcaption>This years exclusive holiday shirt that donors will receive for donating between December 17th and January 2nd/ Photo courtesy of the American Red Cross</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostIn the midst of a historic blood shortage, the American Red Cross is hoping that a popular holiday promotion will bring donors out.Red Cross spokesman Joe Zydlo says that the annual exclusive holiday long sleeved shirt will be available starting today. Zydlo says he's been receiving calls for some time now about when the shirts will be available, adding that with the popularity they are even extending the time you can get them this year."They seem to really respond to it," Zydlo tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "Typically we might run a promotion with this long sleeve shirt, in the past, it may only last maybe a week to 10 days, this time we're extending it longer, from December 17th through January 2nd into the beginning of the year for people to get it, so it's while supplies last, so make an appointment." Zydlo says this years long sleeved shirt has a beautiful design on the front and is dark blue. Zydlo says that incentives such as these shirts or the Amazon gift cards are popular with some donors, but at the end of the day giving blood should be about the goodness in your heart"It's not going to be this big incentive, you're not getting multiple dollars or whatever to donate things, it's more so you're doing it because of the goodness in your heart to donate with the Red Cross," Zydlo says. "We have some of those incentives, we're grateful for Amazon.com, working with the NFL on some of these partnerships."The Red Cross partnered last year with the NFL to send a lucky donor to the Super Bowl, and Zydlo says that is in the works again this year as an incentive come January.Zydlo says the Red Cross is constantly working at coming up with new incentives to bring donors out, because they see some donors respond well to them."You know we try to come up with these different incentives, and there are people that respond with it," Zydlo says. "I will tell you, throughout the region, throughout Missouri and being based in St. Louis, I work with the Cardinals and the Blues on blood drives every year, and there are people specifically, that donate once or twice a year because they are a die hard Cardinal fan, or a die hard Blues fan, and they want that t-shirt."And Zydlo says that they are not afraid to tell him whether they like that shirt or not, so he works hard with the design team to come up with a good product that donors will want.To find out more about this years holiday shirt as well as find where you can donate blood, you can click <a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/">HERE</a>.

American Red Cross hopes annual holiday promotion spurs blood donation

St. Joseph health officials report four new COVID-19 related deaths in Buchanan County just since Monday. The deaths were a man in his 30s and three women - one in her 60s, one in her 80s and one in her 90s.

That brings the Buchanan County virus death toll up to 234 since the pandemic began.

In addition, another 202 cases were reported in the county just since Monday - 74 on Tuesday, 76 on Wednesday and 52 Thursday. Mosaic Life Care has also seen an uptick in COVID hospitalizations.

Mosaic is treating 75 COVID patients - 66 in St. Joseph, six in Maryville and three in Albany.

The St. Joseph Health Department has reported 1030 cases in Buchanan County so far in December - that exceeds the 1004 cases reported in the entire month of November.

Elsewhere, Atchison County, Missouri's 47 percent positivity rate over the last seven days ranks No. 1 among all counties in the state. Holt County's 35 percent positivity rate over the last week is third highest. 

Gentry County has a new-case rate of 578 per 100,000 people over the last week. That rate is the highest in the state currently.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report four new COVID-19 related deaths in Buchanan County just since Monday. The deaths were a man in his 30s and three women - one in her 60s, one in her 80s and one in her 90s.That brings the Buchanan County virus death toll up to 234 since the pandemic began.In addition, another 202 cases were reported in the county just since Monday - 74 on Tuesday, 76 on Wednesday and 52 Thursday. Mosaic Life Care has also seen an uptick in COVID hospitalizations.Mosaic is treating 75 COVID patients - 66 in St. Joseph, six in Maryville and three in Albany.The St. Joseph Health Department has reported 1030 cases in Buchanan County so far in December - that exceeds the 1004 cases reported in the entire month of November.Elsewhere, Atchison County, Missouri's 47 percent positivity rate over the last seven days ranks No. 1 among all counties in the state. Holt County's 35 percent positivity rate over the last week is third highest. Gentry County has a new-case rate of 578 per 100,000 people over the last week. That rate is the highest in the state currently.

St. Joseph Health Department reports four COVID-related deaths since Monday

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A teen was injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Hyundai Sonata driven by a 17-year-old boy from Omaha, Nebraska, was northbound on Interstate 29 just south of the downtown St. Joseph exit.

The driver changed lanes and changed lanes a second time to avoid striking a slower vehicle. The driver overcorrected and lost control of the Hyundai. It traveled off the road and overturned.

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

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A teen was injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Thursday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Hyundai Sonata driven by a 17-year-old boy from Omaha, Nebraska, was northbound on Interstate 29 just south of the downtown St. Joseph exit.The driver changed lanes and changed lanes a second time to avoid striking a slower vehicle. The driver overcorrected and lost control of the Hyundai. It traveled off the road and overturned.Buchanan County EMS transported the teen to Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Teen hospitalized after car overturns in Buchanan County

Extremely high winds roared through the entire area on
Wednesday, with gusts of between 75-and-85 miles per hour reported.

St. Joseph is picking up the pieces, but a survey of the
damage by city crews reveals the city didn’t get hit as hard as feared.

City Manager Bryan Carter says he has been hearing from those
cleaning up debris left in wake of the storm. 

“At first glance, it doesn’t seem as bad as you would expect
out of wind of that nature,” Carter tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “I’ve
gotten a report that we have 16 street trees that fell or dropped limbs,
dropped significant limbs which is not indicative of a major event, certainly not
what we seemed to be experiencing as we went through last night.”

St. Joseph first came under a thunderstorm warning that turned
into a tornado warning early Wednesday afternoon with possible tornadoes
spotted in northeast Kansas around the Troy area and south of Maryville.

Evergy reports 120 outages remain in St. Joseph early
Wednesday afternoon, with 4,413 residences still without electricity. The
utility reports slightly more than 38,000 customers without electricity in
northeast Kansas and northwest Missouri.

Power outages forced the closing of Lafayette High School
today, the Savannah school district, the Mid-Buchanan School District, North
Nodaway R-6, and the Doniphan West USD III School District.

Carter says city crews spreading out across the city cleaning
up debris report damage isn’t as bad as anticipated.

“I did get a report from Parks (Dept.) that they had a few
large trees down,” Carter says. “However, not the same amount that we’ve
experienced in past storms. So, some good fortune there; certainly not what I
feared.”

Winds hit speeds unheard of this time of year with an 80 mile
an hour gust reported near Watson in Atchison County, Kansas and a 90 mile per
hour gust reported in Tarkio in Atchison County, Missouri.

Tommy Rezac contributed to this article.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639681899418.jpeg" alt="Utility pole damaged from Wednesday storms/Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Utility pole damaged from Wednesday storms/Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostExtremely high winds roared through the entire area on
Wednesday, with gusts of between 75-and-85 miles per hour reported.St. Joseph is picking up the pieces, but a survey of the
damage by city crews reveals the city didn’t get hit as hard as feared.City Manager Bryan Carter says he has been hearing from those
cleaning up debris left in wake of the storm. “At first glance, it doesn’t seem as bad as you would expect
out of wind of that nature,” Carter tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “I’ve
gotten a report that we have 16 street trees that fell or dropped limbs,
dropped significant limbs which is not indicative of a major event, certainly not
what we seemed to be experiencing as we went through last night.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639682185629.jpeg" alt="Broken utility poles and downed power lines/Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Broken utility poles and downed power lines/Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph first came under a thunderstorm warning that turned
into a tornado warning early Wednesday afternoon with possible tornadoes
spotted in northeast Kansas around the Troy area and south of Maryville.Evergy reports 120 outages remain in St. Joseph early
Wednesday afternoon, with 4,413 residences still without electricity. The
utility reports slightly more than 38,000 customers without electricity in
northeast Kansas and northwest Missouri.Power outages forced the closing of Lafayette High School
today, the Savannah school district, the Mid-Buchanan School District, North
Nodaway R-6, and the Doniphan West USD III School District.Carter says city crews spreading out across the city cleaning
up debris report damage isn’t as bad as anticipated.“I did get a report from Parks (Dept.) that they had a few
large trees down,” Carter says. “However, not the same amount that we’ve
experienced in past storms. So, some good fortune there; certainly not what I
feared.”Winds hit speeds unheard of this time of year with an 80 mile
an hour gust reported near Watson in Atchison County, Kansas and a 90 mile per
hour gust reported in Tarkio in Atchison County, Missouri.Tommy Rezac contributed to this article.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639682247244.jpeg" alt="Broken utility poles/Photo by Matt Pike" />
 <figcaption>Broken utility poles/Photo by Matt Pike</figcaption>
 </figure>

St. Joseph reports less damage than expected from high winds

The American Red Cross has dispatched volunteers to areas riddled with damage from recent tornadoes.

Red Cross volunteer Shoba Brown was dispatched to the Jonesboro, Arkansas area.  She says that while the line the tornadoes took was northeast of the area, the Red cross is still continuing to assess the damage in the community.

"They've done quite a bit of damage assessment, major damage assessment, and they're working on the rest," Brown tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And everyday, it's changing, the numbers going up, as more damage assessment is being done."

Brown says Red Cross volunteers are slowly getting underway distributing tarps and shovels, adding it takes time assessing the damage before volunteers can determine the best way to assist the people.

Brown just arrived recently in Jonesboro, but she says that other Red Cross volunteers have told stories of people just grateful to be alive after the tornadoes devastated their homes. 

"He had a story of a woman who was just grateful that she and her grandson survived the tornado that blew over their home," Brown says. "So yes, there are people who are just grateful to be alive.

Red Cross volunteers are continuing to assess damage caused by these tornadoes, as well as reaching out to the communities to figure out their biggest needs

Brown is part of community engagement, is working in the underserved parts of Jonesboro, Arkansas.  She says at the end of the day it comes down to getting out and finding out the biggest needs of the community

"It's a matter of getting out in the community, and we will soon be working with our other partners to see how we can assist those in need," Brown says.

Red Cross volunteers are distributing tarp and shovels as they continue to assess the damage caused by the tornadoes. 

For more information on how to assist the Red Cross you can click the link&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/news/2021/red-cross-delivering-comfort-and-help-after-deadly-tornadoes.html"> HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639606436936.jpeg" alt="Photo provided by Red Cross volunteer Shoba Brown" />
 <figcaption>Photo provided by Red Cross volunteer Shoba Brown</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe American Red Cross has dispatched volunteers to areas riddled with damage from recent tornadoes.Red Cross volunteer Shoba Brown was dispatched to the Jonesboro, Arkansas area. She says that while the line the tornadoes took was northeast of the area, the Red cross is still continuing to assess the damage in the community."They've done quite a bit of damage assessment, major damage assessment, and they're working on the rest," Brown tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And everyday, it's changing, the numbers going up, as more damage assessment is being done."Brown says Red Cross volunteers are slowly getting underway distributing tarps and shovels, adding it takes time assessing the damage before volunteers can determine the best way to assist the people.Brown just arrived recently in Jonesboro, but she says that other Red Cross volunteers have told stories of people just grateful to be alive after the tornadoes devastated their homes. "He had a story of a woman who was just grateful that she and her grandson survived the tornado that blew over their home," Brown says. "So yes, there are people who are just grateful to be alive.Red Cross volunteers are continuing to assess damage caused by these tornadoes, as well as reaching out to the communities to figure out their biggest needsBrown is part of community engagement, is working in the underserved parts of Jonesboro, Arkansas. She says at the end of the day it comes down to getting out and finding out the biggest needs of the community"It's a matter of getting out in the community, and we will soon be working with our other partners to see how we can assist those in need," Brown says.Red Cross volunteers are distributing tarp and shovels as they continue to assess the damage caused by the tornadoes. For more information on how to assist the Red Cross you can click the link&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/news/2021/red-cross-delivering-comfort-and-help-after-deadly-tornadoes.html"> HERE</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639606411384.jpeg" alt="Red Cross volunteers continue to take care of victims of disaster/ Photo courtesy of the American Red Cross." />
 <figcaption>Red Cross volunteers continue to take care of victims of disaster/ Photo courtesy of the American Red Cross.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Red Cross volunteers put boots on the ground for tornado relief

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Chevy passenger vehicle driven by Lauraine L. Herring, 52, Cosby, was northbound on Route W four miles east of St. Joseph. 

The vehicle traveled off the road and struck a ditch. Buchanan County EMS transported Herring to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Chevy passenger vehicle driven by Lauraine L. Herring, 52, Cosby, was northbound on Route W four miles east of St. Joseph. The vehicle traveled off the road and struck a ditch. Buchanan County EMS transported Herring to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Andrew County woman injured after vehicle strikes a ditch

HOLT COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Wednesday in Holt County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Volvo semi driven by Clifton D. Highfill, 59, Odessa, was southbound on Interstate 29 two miles north of Mound City.

Wind blew the semi over. Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Highfill to Fairfax Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

HOLT COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Wednesday in Holt County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Volvo semi driven by Clifton D. Highfill, 59, Odessa, was southbound on Interstate 29 two miles north of Mound City.Wind blew the semi over. Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Highfill to Fairfax Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man injured after semi overturns

A strong storm system is making its way across the Midwest eventually made its way to the Missouri River valley Wednesday afternoon and evening.

The entire region, including all of northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas, remain under a High Wind Warning until midnight Wednesday night.

A strong line of thunderstorms fired across central Nebraska Wednesday, spawning wind gusts of 75-85 mph, in addition to a few confirmed tornadoes near the Grand Island and Columbus areas.

This line of storms moved rapidly eastward toward the Missouri River valley, getting into the St. Joseph region right around 5 p.m.

Power lines and tree limbs have been reported down in St. Joseph, Maryville and Savannah.

Hail 1.75” in diameter was reported in Maryville. An 80 mph wind gust was reported two miles north of Watson in Atchison County, Kansas. Roof and power pole damage has been reported near the city of Atchison, Kansas as well Lancaster

 A 90 mph wind gust was reported in Tarkio, MO by local law enforcement. Power poles were reported broken just northeast of Lathrop. A barn has collapsed in Easton, Missouri.

The winds forced the Fairfax and Rock Port school districts, along with Peru State College, to dismiss classes early Wednesday. Trenton Public Schools canceled all after school activities for Wednesday evening.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a semi that tipped over on southbound I-29, about two miles north of Mound City, while mass power outages were reported in and around St. Joseph. Over 18,000 Evergy customers in St. Joseph alone have lost power.

Dust storms were also a problem across portions of central Kansas and southeast Nebraska.

Interstate 70 from Hays, KS to the Colorado border was closed in both directions Wednesday due to low visibility.

The storms will move out of the area late Wednesday night, and bring behind it cooler temperatures in the 40s and 50s for the next week or so.

It appears a mostly dry weather pattern will persist through Christmas as well.

"I can't rule out anything but it doesn't look like we'll have a white Christmas this year," National Weather Service meteorologist Jonathan Kurtz said. "If we do, I know a lot of people wouldn't be that upset at that forecast if I was wrong. But, right now, it looks like it'll be more of a mild Christmas for us."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639615355130.jpeg" alt="A barn that collapsed in Easton, MO. Courtesy photo from Andrea Bailey." />
 <figcaption>A barn that collapsed in Easton, MO. Courtesy photo from Andrea Bailey.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA strong storm system is making its way across the Midwest eventually made its way to the Missouri River valley Wednesday afternoon and evening.The entire region, including all of northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas, remain under a High Wind Warning until midnight Wednesday night.A strong line of thunderstorms fired across central Nebraska Wednesday, spawning wind gusts of 75-85 mph, in addition to a few confirmed tornadoes near the Grand Island and Columbus areas.This line of storms moved rapidly eastward toward the Missouri River valley, getting into the St. Joseph region right around 5 p.m.Power lines and tree limbs have been reported down in St. Joseph, Maryville and Savannah.Hail 1.75” in diameter was reported in Maryville. An 80 mph wind gust was reported two miles north of Watson in Atchison County, Kansas. Roof and power pole damage has been reported near the city of Atchison, Kansas as well Lancaster A 90 mph wind gust was reported in Tarkio, MO by local law enforcement. Power poles were reported broken just northeast of Lathrop. A barn has collapsed in Easton, Missouri.The winds forced the Fairfax and Rock Port school districts, along with Peru State College, to dismiss classes early Wednesday. Trenton Public Schools canceled all after school activities for Wednesday evening.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a semi that tipped over on southbound I-29, about two miles north of Mound City, while mass power outages were reported in and around St. Joseph. Over 18,000 Evergy customers in St. Joseph alone have lost power.Dust storms were also a problem across portions of central Kansas and southeast Nebraska.Interstate 70 from Hays, KS to the Colorado border was closed in both directions Wednesday due to low visibility.The storms will move out of the area late Wednesday night, and bring behind it cooler temperatures in the 40s and 50s for the next week or so.It appears a mostly dry weather pattern will persist through Christmas as well."I can't rule out anything but it doesn't look like we'll have a white Christmas this year," National Weather Service meteorologist Jonathan Kurtz said. "If we do, I know a lot of people wouldn't be that upset at that forecast if I was wrong. But, right now, it looks like it'll be more of a mild Christmas for us."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Severe weather leaves damage across northwest Missouri, northeast Kansas

PLATTE CITY, Mo. (AP) — A man has been convicted of killing four of his family members — including an infant — whose bodies were discovered in the aftermath of a 2016 house fire in northwestern Missouri.

A Platte County jury on Tuesday found 30-year-old Grayden Lane Denham guilty of four counts first-degree murder, four counts of armed criminal action and several other counts.

Killed were his grandparents, 82-year-old Russell Denham and 81-year-old Shirley Denham; his sister, 32-year-old Heather Ager; and Ager’s 3-month-old son, Mason Schiavoni. Their burned bodies were found outside a home near Edgerton, Missouri, on February 19, 2016, and investigators said they all had been shot to death. Prosecutors said Denham torched the home they all shared after the killings.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/e7079be18f184ac9accd09010ae1c489">Prosecutors said Denham was found walking naked</a>&nbsp;in northern Arizona two days after the bodies were found. Prosecutors said Denham had stolen his grandmother's car after the killings and drove it to Arizona, changing the license plates twice along the way.

Denham's case faced multiple delays, including in 2020 when he was deemed not mentally fit to stand trial. The court later found him restored to competency, allowing the trial to proceed.

Denham faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole when he's sentenced on Feb. 25.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639604794631.png" alt="Denham-photo Platte Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Denham-photo Platte Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>PLATTE CITY, Mo. (AP) — A man has been convicted of killing four of his family members — including an infant — whose bodies were discovered in the aftermath of a 2016 house fire in northwestern Missouri.A Platte County jury on Tuesday found 30-year-old Grayden Lane Denham guilty of four counts first-degree murder, four counts of armed criminal action and several other counts.Killed were his grandparents, 82-year-old Russell Denham and 81-year-old Shirley Denham; his sister, 32-year-old Heather Ager; and Ager’s 3-month-old son, Mason Schiavoni. Their burned bodies were found outside a home near Edgerton, Missouri, on February 19, 2016, and investigators said they all had been shot to death. Prosecutors said Denham torched the home they all shared after the killings.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/e7079be18f184ac9accd09010ae1c489">Prosecutors said Denham was found walking naked</a>&nbsp;in northern Arizona two days after the bodies were found. Prosecutors said Denham had stolen his grandmother's car after the killings and drove it to Arizona, changing the license plates twice along the way.Denham's case faced multiple delays, including in 2020 when he was deemed not mentally fit to stand trial. The court later found him restored to competency, allowing the trial to proceed.Denham faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole when he's sentenced on Feb. 25.

Missouri man guilty in the killing of 4 family members

A bit of preparation, a step or two of precaution goes a long
way to keeping Christmas presents out of the hands of thieves.

Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett says safety tips this time
of year mostly boil down to paying attention and common sense, because many
thefts are thefts of convenience.

“Guard your packages, make sure that those are out of sight,”
Puett says. “Watch your wallets, your purses.”

Puett says thieves are looking for distracted shoppers who
might misplace their purse or wallet or forget their credit card on the counter.

He also advises to be careful with how you discard packaging
after Christmas.

“Make sure that those boxes and things are torn down and you
don’t put a whole bunch of stuff out on the street for the trash companies to pick-up,
because all that does is advertise to everybody around that, hey, they just got
a new TV, they got a computer, they got this, they got that,” Puett says.

Puett says avoiding distractions and using common sense go a
long way to staying safe during the Christmas season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639595772817.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA bit of preparation, a step or two of precaution goes a long
way to keeping Christmas presents out of the hands of thieves.Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett says safety tips this time
of year mostly boil down to paying attention and common sense, because many
thefts are thefts of convenience.“Guard your packages, make sure that those are out of sight,”
Puett says. “Watch your wallets, your purses.”Puett says thieves are looking for distracted shoppers who
might misplace their purse or wallet or forget their credit card on the counter.He also advises to be careful with how you discard packaging
after Christmas.“Make sure that those boxes and things are torn down and you
don’t put a whole bunch of stuff out on the street for the trash companies to pick-up,
because all that does is advertise to everybody around that, hey, they just got
a new TV, they got a computer, they got this, they got that,” Puett says.Puett says avoiding distractions and using common sense go a
long way to staying safe during the Christmas season.

Preparation, precaution urged to keep Christmas presents safe

Catholic Charites of Northeast Kansas has been assisting refugees from war-torn Afghanistan over the last few months.

Director of Refugee and Immigration Services Kasey Featherston says they were made aware of the situation in Afghanistan in July, seeing all the people that had been approved to come to the United States.

"Those families were scheduled to travel, and because things were deteriorating so quickly in Afghanistan, they just booked their own flights and just came to our office instead of going through the IOM, the International Organization for Migration, which normally does all the bookings for resettlement," Featherston tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

In August, when more people started fleeing the country, Featherston says Catholic Charities then sent officials to safe havens to assist in welcoming refugees and relocating them.

Featherston says that some of the most pressing needs for any refugee, are the basic essentials that anyone needs to live

"I think the most pressing is making sure that people are housed, and making sure they have the food they need and culturally appropriate food that they are comfortable eating," Featherston says. "And then also attending to any medical needs, so we work with a local health clinic that's been doing a lot of the health screenings as families arrive."

Featherston adds that Catholic Charities is not only assisting refugees from Afghanistan, but from all over the world. 

Catholic Charities also continues to serve refugees from Burma, now known as Mynmar, the Congo, as well as a variety of other countries.

Featherston says people may not be fully aware of what refugees have faced, but the Catholic Diocese works hard to educate the public about refugees and their plight

"The Arch Bishop has his platform, the Shepard's Voice, which he does interviews there," Featherston explains. "And then also, we as a team get out into the arch diocese, into the parishes, and not only do education but we get volunteers."

Featherston says the parishes play a big part in the refugee resettlement process, receiving lots of support from the parishes and the arch diocese.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostCatholic Charites of Northeast Kansas has been assisting refugees from war-torn Afghanistan over the last few months.Director of Refugee and Immigration Services Kasey Featherston says they were made aware of the situation in Afghanistan in July, seeing all the people that had been approved to come to the United States."Those families were scheduled to travel, and because things were deteriorating so quickly in Afghanistan, they just booked their own flights and just came to our office instead of going through the IOM, the International Organization for Migration, which normally does all the bookings for resettlement," Featherston tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.In August, when more people started fleeing the country, Featherston says Catholic Charities then sent officials to safe havens to assist in welcoming refugees and relocating them.Featherston says that some of the most pressing needs for any refugee, are the basic essentials that anyone needs to live"I think the most pressing is making sure that people are housed, and making sure they have the food they need and culturally appropriate food that they are comfortable eating," Featherston says. "And then also attending to any medical needs, so we work with a local health clinic that's been doing a lot of the health screenings as families arrive."Featherston adds that Catholic Charities is not only assisting refugees from Afghanistan, but from all over the world. Catholic Charities also continues to serve refugees from Burma, now known as Mynmar, the Congo, as well as a variety of other countries.Featherston says people may not be fully aware of what refugees have faced, but the Catholic Diocese works hard to educate the public about refugees and their plight"The Arch Bishop has his platform, the Shepard's Voice, which he does interviews there," Featherston explains. "And then also, we as a team get out into the arch diocese, into the parishes, and not only do education but we get volunteers."Featherston says the parishes play a big part in the refugee resettlement process, receiving lots of support from the parishes and the arch diocese.

Refugees coming to United States continue to seek help

A 27-year-old woman faces a second-degree murder charge in the
death of a man found dead outside an eastern St. Joseph apartment complex late
last month.

Myia Weston is charged in the shooting death of 25-year-old Jabin
Bullock in the late afternoon of November 28th.

Witnesses tell St. Joseph police Weston was arguing with
Bullock outside the Ridge Apartments located off South Riverside Road. Weston allegedly
pulled a gun from her vehicle and shot Bullock in the chest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639586067133.png" alt="Weston photo Buchanan Co." />
 <figcaption>Weston photo Buchanan Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 27-year-old woman faces a second-degree murder charge in the
death of a man found dead outside an eastern St. Joseph apartment complex late
last month.Myia Weston is charged in the shooting death of 25-year-old Jabin
Bullock in the late afternoon of November 28th.Witnesses tell St. Joseph police Weston was arguing with
Bullock outside the Ridge Apartments located off South Riverside Road. Weston allegedly
pulled a gun from her vehicle and shot Bullock in the chest.

Woman charged with 2nd degree murder in St. Joseph shooting death

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

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Honda Accord driven by Alexa D. Davis, 24, Wichita, was southbound on Interstate 35 seven miles north of Bethany.

The car traveled off the road and rolled. NTA ambulance transported Davis and a passenger Joan A. Robinson, 32, to Harrison County Community Hospital. Davis was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Tuesday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Honda Accord driven by Alexa D. Davis, 24, Wichita, was southbound on Interstate 35 seven miles north of Bethany.The car traveled off the road and rolled. NTA ambulance transported Davis and a passenger Joan A. Robinson, 32, to Harrison County Community Hospital. Davis was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

2 Kansas woman hospitalized after rollover accident

Strong, sustained winds will make their way across the region Wednesday, bringing with them a high risk of power outages and outdoor fire danger.

The National Weather Service offices in Kansas City, Des Moines and Omaha have issued High Wind Warnings across large swaths of Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri and Kansas, lasting through the entire day Wednesday.

Meteorologist Jonathan Kurtz from the Kansas City/Pleasant Hill office says an event like this is somewhat rare.

"Really once every couple of years, we get a really strong low pressure like this that's lifting across the Plains," Kurtz said. "When we pull out the High Wind Warning, that usually means it's going to be pretty significant with sustained winds of 35-40 mph during the day with gusts of up to 60-65 mph."

Temperatures Wednesday are also expected to reach the 70s. Combine that with high winds and dry vegetation, the outdoor fire danger is also elevated. A Red Flag Warning has also been issued for portions of northeast Kansas and northwest Missouri.

"You mix the warm and windy conditions along with dry fuels, grasses and dry vegetation, any fire that gets sparked or that somebody sets could get out of control pretty quick," Kurtz added.

Perhaps the biggest concern is the possibility of widespread power outages, especially if tree limbs fall onto power lines.

Evergy spokesperson Andrew Baker says crews across their service area are ready to deal with the strong winds.

"Evergy's tree trimming and vegetation management along with other maintenance works is really our best defense against high winds in situations like this," Baker explained. "However, if we see those 60-70 mph winds, it's still possible we could experience some wind caused outages."

Baker says the threat for severe weather and periods of high winds during thunderstorms prepares Evergy crews to deal with adverse weather patterns throughout the year.

"Preparations for things like this don't just happen days before or hours before," Baker said. "It's something we monitor year-round to put ourselves in the best position possible for when we do see this kind of weather."

The high winds are expected to subside late Wednesday night. Temperatures will cool off into the 40s and 50s for the rest of the week and into the weekend, but dry and sunny conditions are expected for the foreseeable future.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostStrong, sustained winds will make their way across the region Wednesday, bringing with them a high risk of power outages and outdoor fire danger.The National Weather Service offices in Kansas City, Des Moines and Omaha have issued High Wind Warnings across large swaths of Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri and Kansas, lasting through the entire day Wednesday.Meteorologist Jonathan Kurtz from the Kansas City/Pleasant Hill office says an event like this is somewhat rare."Really once every couple of years, we get a really strong low pressure like this that's lifting across the Plains," Kurtz said. "When we pull out the High Wind Warning, that usually means it's going to be pretty significant with sustained winds of 35-40 mph during the day with gusts of up to 60-65 mph."Temperatures Wednesday are also expected to reach the 70s. Combine that with high winds and dry vegetation, the outdoor fire danger is also elevated. A Red Flag Warning has also been issued for portions of northeast Kansas and northwest Missouri."You mix the warm and windy conditions along with dry fuels, grasses and dry vegetation, any fire that gets sparked or that somebody sets could get out of control pretty quick," Kurtz added.Perhaps the biggest concern is the possibility of widespread power outages, especially if tree limbs fall onto power lines.Evergy spokesperson Andrew Baker says crews across their service area are ready to deal with the strong winds."Evergy's tree trimming and vegetation management along with other maintenance works is really our best defense against high winds in situations like this," Baker explained. "However, if we see those 60-70 mph winds, it's still possible we could experience some wind caused outages."Baker says the threat for severe weather and periods of high winds during thunderstorms prepares Evergy crews to deal with adverse weather patterns throughout the year."Preparations for things like this don't just happen days before or hours before," Baker said. "It's something we monitor year-round to put ourselves in the best position possible for when we do see this kind of weather."The high winds are expected to subside late Wednesday night. Temperatures will cool off into the 40s and 50s for the rest of the week and into the weekend, but dry and sunny conditions are expected for the foreseeable future.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">A high wind *warning* has been issued for Wednesday for eastern Kansas into Northwest Missouri. Wind gusts up to 65 mph are expected Wednesday afternoon &amp; evening. <a href="https://t.co/XmNotpMDA6">pic.twitter.com/XmNotpMDA6</a>&mdash; NWS Kansas City (@NWSKansasCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSKansasCity/status/1470717358515712003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>

National Weather Service warns of damaging winds across Kansas, Missouri

A different kind of holiday punch will be served in St. Joseph.

The Freudenthal Center for Parkinson’s Disease is holding a
fundraiser Wednesday entitled Holiday Punch for Parkinson’s Disease, an
invitation to the public to donate $15 and join the center in its boxing
program.

Freudenthal Executive Director Stephanie Stewart says the
boxing program at the center gives those with Parkinson’s Disease strength,
coordination, and balance, with balance being very important.

“A lot of our folks with Parkinson’s tend to fall frequently
and so working on their balance and giving them an opportunity to try learn how
to stabilize themselves if they get caught off guard, to be able to get themselves
back into a stable place is really very important for them,” Stewart tells host
Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.

Classes at East Hills Mall will be held Wednesday afternoon at
three in the afternoon and six in the evening. Register in advance with the
<a href="http://www.freudenthalhh.com/fcpd?fbclid=IwAR0Bz4ngmCY2djTyDtFliupPVLJw7nh903nQHPt7ozdW8GUqaufgl8JobPY">Freudenthal Center for Parkinson’s Disease</a> for a suggested donation of $15 in advance or
arrive at the start of class for a suggested $20 donation.

Stewart says the center offers the boxing program as well as
other exercise programs, because vigorous exercise has been proven to slow the
advance of the disease.

“The research shows that exercise really does work to slow the
progression of the disease,” Stewart says. “And that’s really our main goal is
to help them to have the best quality of life that they possibly can have with
this disease.”

Boxing can also change the attitude of someone struggling with
Parkinson’s.

“We tend to see a lot more confidence as they’re walking in
after they’ve been working with us for a little while,” according to Stewart. “As
they walk in, they have more confidence, because they know that this is
something that they can do to fight back against this disease.”

Research is closing in on a cure, but only closing in.

“Unfortunately, we’re not there yet,” Stewart says. “There are
a lot of different breakthroughs that are coming, but we’re just not there,
yet.”

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/FreudenthalCenter4PD/">The Freudenthal Center</a> is celebrating its 3rd
anniversary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639492939788.jpeg" alt="Freudenthal Center for Parkinson's Disease at East Hills Mall/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Freudenthal Center for Parkinson's Disease at East Hills Mall/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA different kind of holiday punch will be served in St. Joseph.The Freudenthal Center for Parkinson’s Disease is holding a
fundraiser Wednesday entitled Holiday Punch for Parkinson’s Disease, an
invitation to the public to donate $15 and join the center in its boxing
program.Freudenthal Executive Director Stephanie Stewart says the
boxing program at the center gives those with Parkinson’s Disease strength,
coordination, and balance, with balance being very important.“A lot of our folks with Parkinson’s tend to fall frequently
and so working on their balance and giving them an opportunity to try learn how
to stabilize themselves if they get caught off guard, to be able to get themselves
back into a stable place is really very important for them,” Stewart tells host
Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline.Classes at East Hills Mall will be held Wednesday afternoon at
three in the afternoon and six in the evening. Register in advance with the
<a href="http://www.freudenthalhh.com/fcpd?fbclid=IwAR0Bz4ngmCY2djTyDtFliupPVLJw7nh903nQHPt7ozdW8GUqaufgl8JobPY">Freudenthal Center for Parkinson’s Disease</a> for a suggested donation of $15 in advance or
arrive at the start of class for a suggested $20 donation.Stewart says the center offers the boxing program as well as
other exercise programs, because vigorous exercise has been proven to slow the
advance of the disease.“The research shows that exercise really does work to slow the
progression of the disease,” Stewart says. “And that’s really our main goal is
to help them to have the best quality of life that they possibly can have with
this disease.”Boxing can also change the attitude of someone struggling with
Parkinson’s.“We tend to see a lot more confidence as they’re walking in
after they’ve been working with us for a little while,” according to Stewart. “As
they walk in, they have more confidence, because they know that this is
something that they can do to fight back against this disease.”Research is closing in on a cure, but only closing in.“Unfortunately, we’re not there yet,” Stewart says. “There are
a lot of different breakthroughs that are coming, but we’re just not there,
yet.”<a href="https://www.facebook.com/FreudenthalCenter4PD/">The Freudenthal Center</a> is celebrating its 3rd
anniversary.

This Christmas punch raises money in the fight against Parkinson's

St.
Joseph health officials report 213 new COVID-19 cases since last issuing a
report on Thursday, with one additional coronavirus-related death.

The
St. Joseph Health Department reports a man in his 70’s died from COVID-19.

The
Buchanan County coronavirus positivity rate has fallen, down 1.52% to 13.03%.

The
department reports 73 new cases on Friday and 140 cumulatively from Saturday
through Monday. Those numbers push the total cases in Buchanan County since the
pandemic began above 17,000; now at 17,138. Buchanan County has also
recorded a total of 230 deaths.

Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating a total of 79 COVID-19 patients as of Tuesday morning; 68 in St.
Joseph, seven in Maryville, and four in Albany.

Mosaic will be providing COVID-19 vaccinations at the Community Vaccine Site (the former Gordman's) Monday between 8 a.m. and noon, both the
initial COVID-19 vaccination or the booster for Pfizer and Moderna. You can sign up at
<a href="https://www.mymlc.com/vaccine">mymlc.com/vaccine</a>.

This article has been updated with Mosaic Tuesday morning numbers.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt.
Joseph health officials report 213 new COVID-19 cases since last issuing a
report on Thursday, with one additional coronavirus-related death.The
St. Joseph Health Department reports a man in his 70’s died from COVID-19.The
Buchanan County coronavirus positivity rate has fallen, down 1.52% to 13.03%.The
department reports 73 new cases on Friday and 140 cumulatively from Saturday
through Monday. Those numbers push the total cases in Buchanan County since the
pandemic began above 17,000; now at 17,138. Buchanan County has also
recorded a total of 230 deaths.Hospitalizations have jumped.Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating a total of 79 COVID-19 patients as of Tuesday morning; 68 in St.
Joseph, seven in Maryville, and four in Albany.Mosaic will be providing COVID-19 vaccinations at the Community Vaccine Site (the former Gordman's) Monday between 8 a.m. and noon, both the
initial COVID-19 vaccination or the booster for Pfizer and Moderna. You can sign up at
<a href="https://www.mymlc.com/vaccine">mymlc.com/vaccine</a>.This article has been updated with Mosaic Tuesday morning numbers.

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