St. Joseph health officials report 42 new COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County Thursday, but no new deaths.

The county has now seen 9,467 total cases and 151 COVID-related deaths since the pandemic began.

Mosaic Life Care reports 50 COVID-19 patients in its system Thursday with 46 patients in St. Joseph, four in Maryville and one in Albany.

Andrew County reports six new cases Thursday for a total of 1,874. The county has also had 18 COVID-related fatalities since the pandemic started.

Nodaway County reports 15 new cases for a total of 2,492.

Statewide, Missouri reports 2,049 new cases (443,838 total) and 24 new deaths (6,485 total) Thursday.

Kansas reports 263,412 total cases and 3,575 total deaths due to COVID.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report 42 new COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County Thursday, but no new deaths.The county has now seen 9,467 total cases and 151 COVID-related deaths since the pandemic began.Mosaic Life Care reports 50 COVID-19 patients in its system Thursday with 46 patients in St. Joseph, four in Maryville and one in Albany.Andrew County reports six new cases Thursday for a total of 1,874. The county has also had 18 COVID-related fatalities since the pandemic started.Nodaway County reports 15 new cases for a total of 2,492.Statewide, Missouri reports 2,049 new cases (443,838 total) and 24 new deaths (6,485 total) Thursday.Kansas reports 263,412 total cases and 3,575 total deaths due to COVID.

No new deaths in Buchanan County, Mosaic hospitalizations stable Thursday

Northwest Missouri awaits word on when it might receive
COVID-19 vaccine for the next group of residents eligible to be vaccinated.

Health care workers and nursing home residents have been
getting shots. Now, the state has announced it is coordinating mass vaccinations
for the next group.

Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Lee Sawyer says those
in Phase 1B will be allowed to receive their vaccinations soon.

“You just don’t know what the timeline on that is, that
effort. We could get child care and we could get some of these other folks
vaccinated,” Sawyer tells the KFEQ Hotline. “Obviously, the sooner we can, the
better, but it’s no small endeavor is the thing.”

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services <a href="https://covidvaccine.mo.gov/priority/Phase1b/">outlines
Phase 1B and its three tiers</a>.

Phase 1B – Tier 1 includes those who respond in times of emergency.
Phase 1B – Tier 2 includes high-risk individuals, such as those 65 and older as
well as any adults with serious illnesses such as cancer. Phase 1B – Tier 3
includes those in occupations which keep society operating, such as teachers
and child care workers.

Missouri plans mass vaccinations in each of the state’s nine
Highway Patrol regions. The National Guard will assist the Department of Health
and Senior Services in administering the vaccinations.

Sawyer says health officials have indicated it will take as
many as 50,000 Buchanan County residents to get vaccinated for the county to be
considered at herd immunity against the coronavirus.

“It’s a lot. Again, access to the vaccine is the number one,”
Sawyer says. “It sure sounds like here in the very near future we’re going to have
a good plan, a good process to get people through once we make sure and get that.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthwest Missouri awaits word on when it might receive
COVID-19 vaccine for the next group of residents eligible to be vaccinated.Health care workers and nursing home residents have been
getting shots. Now, the state has announced it is coordinating mass vaccinations
for the next group.Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Lee Sawyer says those
in Phase 1B will be allowed to receive their vaccinations soon.“You just don’t know what the timeline on that is, that
effort. We could get child care and we could get some of these other folks
vaccinated,” Sawyer tells the KFEQ Hotline. “Obviously, the sooner we can, the
better, but it’s no small endeavor is the thing.”The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services <a href="https://covidvaccine.mo.gov/priority/Phase1b/">outlines
Phase 1B and its three tiers</a>.Phase 1B – Tier 1 includes those who respond in times of emergency.
Phase 1B – Tier 2 includes high-risk individuals, such as those 65 and older as
well as any adults with serious illnesses such as cancer. Phase 1B – Tier 3
includes those in occupations which keep society operating, such as teachers
and child care workers.Missouri plans mass vaccinations in each of the state’s nine
Highway Patrol regions. The National Guard will assist the Department of Health
and Senior Services in administering the vaccinations.Sawyer says health officials have indicated it will take as
many as 50,000 Buchanan County residents to get vaccinated for the county to be
considered at herd immunity against the coronavirus.“It’s a lot. Again, access to the vaccine is the number one,”
Sawyer says. “It sure sounds like here in the very near future we’re going to have
a good plan, a good process to get people through once we make sure and get that.”

Northwest Missouri still waiting on COVID-19 vaccine

Charges have been filed in the fire at Nodaway County Jail last week.

The Nodaway County Sheriff's Office says 29-year-old Ethan Mark Bentley, of Rulo, Nebraska, is charged with first-degree arson, a Class B felony, in the fire that started at the jail last Thursday.

Nodaway County Attorney Caleb Phillips&nbsp;noted that Bentley is a “Prior and Persistent Offender,” having been found guilty on two or more felonies committed at different times.  

Bentley has four felony convictions in Nebraska from 2012-2015.

At the time of the fire, Bentley was being held in Nodaway County on charges stemming from an incident that took place on January 6, 2021, in Maryville.

Maryville Police attempted to stop a vehicle allegedly driven by Bentley after a witness reported seeing a man assaulting a woman in the car.  

Officers attempted to stop Bentley in his vehicle, and a pursuit ensued.

During the pursuit, authorities say Bentley intentionally drove head on into a Maryville Police car, and then assaulted an officer during his arrest.

Bentley is charged in that case with two counts of first-degree assault, first-degree property damage and a class E felony of resisting a lawful stop.  

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostCharges have been filed in the fire at Nodaway County Jail last week.The Nodaway County Sheriff's Office says 29-year-old Ethan Mark Bentley, of Rulo, Nebraska, is charged with first-degree arson, a Class B felony, in the fire that started at the jail last Thursday.Nodaway County Attorney Caleb Phillips&nbsp;noted that Bentley is a “Prior and Persistent Offender,” having been found guilty on two or more felonies committed at different times. Bentley has four felony convictions in Nebraska from 2012-2015.At the time of the fire, Bentley was being held in Nodaway County on charges stemming from an incident that took place on January 6, 2021, in Maryville.Maryville Police attempted to stop a vehicle allegedly driven by Bentley after a witness reported seeing a man assaulting a woman in the car. Officers attempted to stop Bentley in his vehicle, and a pursuit ensued.During the pursuit, authorities say Bentley intentionally drove head on into a Maryville Police car, and then assaulted an officer during his arrest.Bentley is charged in that case with two counts of first-degree assault, first-degree property damage and a class E felony of resisting a lawful stop. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611254042960.jpeg" alt="Ethan Mark Bentley. Photo via Nodaway County Sheriff's Office." />
 <figcaption>Ethan Mark Bentley. Photo via Nodaway County Sheriff's Office.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Charges filed in Nodaway County Jail fire

SAVANNAH - Grant Gillett has been the Andrew County Sheriff for three weeks.

In that time, his office and the Savannah Police Department have seen a wave of car thefts in the area.

The most notable incident came in the early morning of January 13, when several vehicles in the Savannah area were broken into.

Savannah Police chased a stolen vehicle into Country Club, where the vehicle wrecked and a suspect was taken into custody. 

A second chase on I-229 with another stolen vehicle was started by the Andrew County Sheriff's Office the same night. Spike stripes were deployed, the vehicle wrecked and another suspect was taken into custody. 

Narcotics and a stolen gun were recovered, and charges against both suspects are pending.

Sheriff Gillett says there have been no reported car thefts in Andrew County since last Wednesday. He says the solution is simple - take your keys out and lock your doors.

"(Car thieves) are driving up and down the street and they're just checking every vehicle," Gillett said. "If the doors are locked, they go on past it. The vehicles that are being broken into and stolen, the doors are unlocked and the keys are in them."

Gillett says there have been several other car thefts in Andrew County prior to the two chases on the 13th. He hopes this quiet spell over the last eight days will continue.

"If people would just start securing their cars and pulling the keys out of them, we not have so many of these vehicle thefts or break-ins in our area."

You can follow St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSAVANNAH - Grant Gillett has been the Andrew County Sheriff for three weeks.In that time, his office and the Savannah Police Department have seen a wave of car thefts in the area.The most notable incident came in the early morning of January 13, when several vehicles in the Savannah area were broken into.Savannah Police chased a stolen vehicle into Country Club, where the vehicle wrecked and a suspect was taken into custody. A second chase on I-229 with another stolen vehicle was started by the Andrew County Sheriff's Office the same night. Spike stripes were deployed, the vehicle wrecked and another suspect was taken into custody. Narcotics and a stolen gun were recovered, and charges against both suspects are pending.Sheriff Gillett says there have been no reported car thefts in Andrew County since last Wednesday. He says the solution is simple - take your keys out and lock your doors."(Car thieves) are driving up and down the street and they're just checking every vehicle," Gillett said. "If the doors are locked, they go on past it. The vehicles that are being broken into and stolen, the doors are unlocked and the keys are in them."Gillett says there have been several other car thefts in Andrew County prior to the two chases on the 13th. He hopes this quiet spell over the last eight days will continue."If people would just start securing their cars and pulling the keys out of them, we not have so many of these vehicle thefts or break-ins in our area."<div><div id="fb-root"></div>
<script async defer crossorigin="anonymous" src="https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v9.0" nonce="Ys8qx9Pl"></script></div><div><div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/andrewcountysheriff/posts/3442269089233148" data-width="500" data-show-text="true"><blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/andrewcountysheriff/posts/3442269089233148" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">In the early morning hours of 1/13/21, several vehicles again were broken into in Savannah and other surrounding areas...Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/andrewcountysheriff/">Andrew County Sheriff&#039;s Office</a> on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/andrewcountysheriff/posts/3442269089233148">Wednesday, January 13, 2021</a></blockquote></div></div>You can follow St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Savannah, Andrew County sees wave of car thefts in early January, authorities say 'lock your doors'

Former Iowa Agriculture Secretary Bill Northey is returning home after serving nearly three years in the Trump Administration. 

Bill Northey resigned as Iowa Ag Secretary in March of 2018 to become Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation in the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

"It'll be different waking up everyday not thinking about all the things we need to do at USDA, there's other folks that will work on that," Northey says "Now I can start thinking about what I might do next."

Northey oversaw a division of the USDA with 21,000 employees, operating out of about three-thousand locations and Northey traveled extensively. 

He visited USDA offices in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands as well as in 48 of the 50 states -- he didn't make it to Hawaii or Alaska. 

As the former state ag secretary exits the USDA, a former Iowa governor is returning. Tom Vilsack served as President Obama's Secretary of Agriculture for eight years.

"It's really nice to have somebody who knows how the place works, and probably has had a little bit of time to think about what he might want to do the next time around if there was a next time around," Northey says about Vilsack, "He'll hit the ground running."

Northey says he has no idea if his service in the Trump Administration will impact his future prospects.

Radio Iowa contributed to this story.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611168541478.jpeg" alt="Bill Northey&nbsp; (far right) listens as former Missouri Farm Bureau President Blake Hurst after both toured flooding on the farm of Andy Spiegel of rural Watson in 2019/Photo by Brent Martin." />
 <figcaption>Bill Northey&nbsp; (far right) listens as former Missouri Farm Bureau President Blake Hurst after both toured flooding on the farm of Andy Spiegel of rural Watson in 2019/Photo by Brent Martin.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFormer Iowa Agriculture Secretary Bill Northey is returning home after serving nearly three years in the Trump Administration. Bill Northey resigned as Iowa Ag Secretary in March of 2018 to become Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation in the U.S. Department of Agriculture."It'll be different waking up everyday not thinking about all the things we need to do at USDA, there's other folks that will work on that," Northey says "Now I can start thinking about what I might do next."Northey oversaw a division of the USDA with 21,000 employees, operating out of about three-thousand locations and Northey traveled extensively. He visited USDA offices in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands as well as in 48 of the 50 states -- he didn't make it to Hawaii or Alaska. As the former state ag secretary exits the USDA, a former Iowa governor is returning. Tom Vilsack served as President Obama's Secretary of Agriculture for eight years."It's really nice to have somebody who knows how the place works, and probably has had a little bit of time to think about what he might want to do the next time around if there was a next time around," Northey says about Vilsack, "He'll hit the ground running."Northey says he has no idea if his service in the Trump Administration will impact his future prospects.Radio Iowa contributed to this story.

Former Iowa Ag Secretary coming back to Iowa after 3 years at USDA 

St. Joseph health officials report 63 additional cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County Wednesday, but no new deaths.

There have now been 9,425 total cases in the county with 151 fatalities.

Mosaic Life Care reports 46 patients in its system Wednesday - that's down four from the day before.

The St. Joseph hospital has 44 patients, while Maryville and Albany each have one.

Andrew County reports just four new cases Wednesday for a total of 1,868. There have also been 18 deaths in the county since the pandemic started.

Clinton County reports an increase of 153 cases, putting their total at 1,711. DeKalb County reports 16 new cases, putting their total at 1,006.

Gentry County reports eight new cases (728 total) and one new death (18 total) Wednesday.

Statewide, Missouri reports 1,592 new cases (441,789 total) and 198 new deaths (6,461 total) Wednesday.

Since Monday, the state of Kansas has seen 3,590 new cases (263,412 total) and 50 new deaths (3,575 total) due to COVID.

Doniphan County reports 849 total cases (+6), while Atchison County, KS reports 1,387 (+15) total cases.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report 63 additional cases of COVID-19 in Buchanan County Wednesday, but no new deaths.There have now been 9,425 total cases in the county with 151 fatalities.Mosaic Life Care reports 46 patients in its system Wednesday - that's down four from the day before.The St. Joseph hospital has 44 patients, while Maryville and Albany each have one.Andrew County reports just four new cases Wednesday for a total of 1,868. There have also been 18 deaths in the county since the pandemic started.Clinton County reports an increase of 153 cases, putting their total at 1,711. DeKalb County reports 16 new cases, putting their total at 1,006.Gentry County reports eight new cases (728 total) and one new death (18 total) Wednesday.Statewide, Missouri reports 1,592 new cases (441,789 total) and 198 new deaths (6,461 total) Wednesday.Since Monday, the state of Kansas has seen 3,590 new cases (263,412 total) and 50 new deaths (3,575 total) due to COVID.Doniphan County reports 849 total cases (+6), while Atchison County, KS reports 1,387 (+15) total cases.

DeKalb County exceeds 1,000 total COVID-19 cases, Missouri reports nearly 200 more deaths Wednesday

St. Joseph is looking for a new City Manager, again.

St. Joseph begins the search for the next City Manager after
Gary Edwards resigned just two months after accepting the position.

Mayor Bill McMurray says the search firm Baker Tilly has already
started the process to find the next City Manager, at no cost to St. Joseph.

“The firm we used to hire Garry, Baker Tilly had a clause in
their contract that there would be no charge if this didn’t work out,” McMurray
tells St. Joseph Post.

McMurray says the firm is ahead of schedule, since it just
concluded the process that brought Edwards to the city from Aransas Pass, Texas.


McMurray says Edwards resigned from his position as City
manager due to family matters.

“The overall feeling, like my feeling, is just kind of shock
and dismay that were losing a good city manager,” says McMurray. 

McMurray says Baker Tilly is well underway with the search
process. 

“They have already started advertising. They’re going to do
that for four to six weeks and at the conclusion of that they’re going to have
a list of candidates that the council will pare down.”

McMurray hopes the City Council can fill the position by late
May, early June. 

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph PostSt. Joseph is looking for a new City Manager, again.St. Joseph begins the search for the next City Manager after
Gary Edwards resigned just two months after accepting the position.Mayor Bill McMurray says the search firm Baker Tilly has already
started the process to find the next City Manager, at no cost to St. Joseph.“The firm we used to hire Garry, Baker Tilly had a clause in
their contract that there would be no charge if this didn’t work out,” McMurray
tells St. Joseph Post.McMurray says the firm is ahead of schedule, since it just
concluded the process that brought Edwards to the city from Aransas Pass, Texas.
McMurray says Edwards resigned from his position as City
manager due to family matters.“The overall feeling, like my feeling, is just kind of shock
and dismay that were losing a good city manager,” says McMurray. McMurray says Baker Tilly is well underway with the search
process. “They have already started advertising. They’re going to do
that for four to six weeks and at the conclusion of that they’re going to have
a list of candidates that the council will pare down.”McMurray hopes the City Council can fill the position by late
May, early June.

St. Joseph embarks on another City Manager search

Missouri Farm Bureau officials will be pushing Congress to
expand broadband to all of rural America.

Missouri Farm Bureau spokesman Eric Bohl says though Congress
approved money for broadband expansion in the CARES Act, no one knows yet how
far that money will stretch.

“We’re not going to let up until everybody gets broadband
availability at a reasonable and affordable price at their home and farm,” Bohl
says.

Bohl acknowledges there has been progress, both on the
national and state level, in expanding access to high-speed Internet to rural
residents.

“But, there’s still a long way to go and we started from
behind. So, we need to keep on pushing on it.”

Bohl says a study released by the FCC about four years ago
disclosed that more than a million rural Missourians didn’t have broadband access.

“And that was more than any other state other than California or
Texas,” according to Bohl. “You know, California and Texas have a whole heck of
a lot more people than we do, total. And this is raw numbers. They are the only
two states that had more than a million people unserved aside from Missouri.”

There has been progress since in expanding broadband access to
rural America. Still, Bohl says obstacles remain to getting high-speed Internet
to remote areas of the state.

“A lot of places in Missouri it’s pretty hard to get to,” Bohl
points out. “And those last few miles are really expensive. Hopefully now we’re
getting to the point where there’s enough resources out there that everyone is
going to have the opportunity to log on at the speeds that they need to
participate in the modern economy.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Farm Bureau officials will be pushing Congress to
expand broadband to all of rural America.Missouri Farm Bureau spokesman Eric Bohl says though Congress
approved money for broadband expansion in the CARES Act, no one knows yet how
far that money will stretch.“We’re not going to let up until everybody gets broadband
availability at a reasonable and affordable price at their home and farm,” Bohl
says.Bohl acknowledges there has been progress, both on the
national and state level, in expanding access to high-speed Internet to rural
residents.“But, there’s still a long way to go and we started from
behind. So, we need to keep on pushing on it.”Bohl says a study released by the FCC about four years ago
disclosed that more than a million rural Missourians didn’t have broadband access.“And that was more than any other state other than California or
Texas,” according to Bohl. “You know, California and Texas have a whole heck of
a lot more people than we do, total. And this is raw numbers. They are the only
two states that had more than a million people unserved aside from Missouri.”There has been progress since in expanding broadband access to
rural America. Still, Bohl says obstacles remain to getting high-speed Internet
to remote areas of the state.“A lot of places in Missouri it’s pretty hard to get to,” Bohl
points out. “And those last few miles are really expensive. Hopefully now we’re
getting to the point where there’s enough resources out there that everyone is
going to have the opportunity to log on at the speeds that they need to
participate in the modern economy.”

Missouri Farm Bureau to push for broadband expansion in rural Missouri

WORTH COUNTY—A Missouri woman died in an accident just before 4p.m. Tuesday in Worth County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Lincoln LS driven by Stacie R. Jenks, 50, Grant City, was westbound on Highway 46 just east of Briggs Street in Grant City.&nbsp;

The driver lost control of the vehicle. It crossed the center line and the driver overcorrected. The car traveled off the road and struck a tree.

Jenks was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Andrews Hann Funeral Home. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

WORTH COUNTY—A Missouri woman died in an accident just before 4p.m. Tuesday in Worth County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Lincoln LS driven by Stacie R. Jenks, 50, Grant City, was westbound on Highway 46 just east of Briggs Street in Grant City.&nbsp;The driver lost control of the vehicle. It crossed the center line and the driver overcorrected. The car traveled off the road and struck a tree.Jenks was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Andrews Hann Funeral Home. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Grant City woman dies after car strikes tree

The St. Joseph Health Department reports two more COVID-19 related deaths in Buchanan County since Friday.

The two victims were a man and a woman - both in their 80s. The Buchanan County death toll is now 151. There have also been 107 more cases confirmed in Buchanan County since Friday for a total of 9,362 since the pandemic began.

The good news - only eight cases reported in Buchanan County Monday.

Mosaic Life Care reports 50 COVID-19 patients in its system - an increase of five since Monday. There are 47 patients in the St. Joseph hospital, one in Maryville and two in Albany.

Andrew County reports just two new cases, but also one new death Tuesday, putting the case total at 1,864 and the pandemic death toll at 18.

DeKalb County reports 25 new cases for a total of 984. Nodaway County has seen 20 new cases since Friday for a total of 2,457. Atchison County, MO reports four new cases (404 total) and one new death (11 total) since Friday.

Statewide, Missouri reports an additional 1,357 cases (440,197 total) and seven new deaths (6,263 total) Tuesday.

Kansas health officials report 259,822 total cases with 3,525 total deaths as of Monday. Their numbers will be updated again on Wednesday.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Health Department reports two more COVID-19 related deaths in Buchanan County since Friday.The two victims were a man and a woman - both in their 80s. The Buchanan County death toll is now 151. There have also been 107 more cases confirmed in Buchanan County since Friday for a total of 9,362 since the pandemic began.The good news - only eight cases reported in Buchanan County Monday.Mosaic Life Care reports 50 COVID-19 patients in its system - an increase of five since Monday. There are 47 patients in the St. Joseph hospital, one in Maryville and two in Albany.Andrew County reports just two new cases, but also one new death Tuesday, putting the case total at 1,864 and the pandemic death toll at 18.DeKalb County reports 25 new cases for a total of 984. Nodaway County has seen 20 new cases since Friday for a total of 2,457. Atchison County, MO reports four new cases (404 total) and one new death (11 total) since Friday.Statewide, Missouri reports an additional 1,357 cases (440,197 total) and seven new deaths (6,263 total) Tuesday.Kansas health officials report 259,822 total cases with 3,525 total deaths as of Monday. Their numbers will be updated again on Wednesday.

Two COVID-related deaths reported in Buchanan County, one in Andrew County Tuesday

MAYSVILLE - The Tri-County Health Department was not chosen to receive an additional supply of COVID-19 vaccines this week, further delaying and confusing the distribution of the vaccine in parts of northwest Missouri.

Tri-County Health already has 110 doses of the Moderna vaccine ready to go for people in Phase 1a this week (medical personnel, long-term care residents) and soon, first responders within Worth, Gentry and DeKalb counties.

"We've been in close contact with Mosaic Life Care and (President) John Doolitte," Tri-County health administrator Teresa McDonald said. "They're trying to help us in getting our first responders vaccinated."

The state of Missouri activated vaccinations for people in Phase 1b this week. That includes those over age 65 and anyone considered to be at high-risk.

Those in Phase 1b who live in the Tri-County area aren't sure how long they'll have to wait to get their COVID vaccine.

"I don't have any definite answers on why our order was denied this week," Tri-County health administrator Teresa McDonald said. "I'm assuming it was a supply issue."

Tri-County placed an order of 240 vaccines for people in Phase 1b. McDonald has reached out to State Rep. J Eggleston, notifying him of the situation. She's yet to hear a response.

While Tri-County is waiting on Eggleston's response, calls from residents within the Tri-County area have been frequent.

The health department now has three phone lines set up for people who want to get in line for vaccination clinics.

"We can't hardly get anything else done," McDonald admitted. "It makes it a little difficult to schedule clinics when we have all of these calls coming in. That's why we've elected to have the cellphone that we purchased to have the voicemail set up to go ahead and take the messages and take a little break off of our phones."

Tri-County Health started a <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/1ec7a10c-1e58-4c0d-8198-a9394ab6edda">COVID-19 vaccine waiting list</a> for this purpose last week. That list now has 1,036 people on it.

"We're just going to continue to put people on the list as they call in," McDonald said. "That way, we at least know what we need and where we need it at."

Those who want to get on the list are asked to call&nbsp;660-822-1247 and follow the instructions laid out in the voicemail message.

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

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMAYSVILLE - The Tri-County Health Department was not chosen to receive an additional supply of COVID-19 vaccines this week, further delaying and confusing the distribution of the vaccine in parts of northwest Missouri.Tri-County Health already has 110 doses of the Moderna vaccine ready to go for people in Phase 1a this week (medical personnel, long-term care residents) and soon, first responders within Worth, Gentry and DeKalb counties."We've been in close contact with Mosaic Life Care and (President) John Doolitte," Tri-County health administrator Teresa McDonald said. "They're trying to help us in getting our first responders vaccinated."The state of Missouri activated vaccinations for people in Phase 1b this week. That includes those over age 65 and anyone considered to be at high-risk.Those in Phase 1b who live in the Tri-County area aren't sure how long they'll have to wait to get their COVID vaccine."I don't have any definite answers on why our order was denied this week," Tri-County health administrator Teresa McDonald said. "I'm assuming it was a supply issue."Tri-County placed an order of 240 vaccines for people in Phase 1b. McDonald has reached out to State Rep. J Eggleston, notifying him of the situation. She's yet to hear a response.While Tri-County is waiting on Eggleston's response, calls from residents within the Tri-County area have been frequent.The health department now has three phone lines set up for people who want to get in line for vaccination clinics."We can't hardly get anything else done," McDonald admitted. "It makes it a little difficult to schedule clinics when we have all of these calls coming in. That's why we've elected to have the cellphone that we purchased to have the voicemail set up to go ahead and take the messages and take a little break off of our phones."Tri-County Health started a <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/1ec7a10c-1e58-4c0d-8198-a9394ab6edda">COVID-19 vaccine waiting list</a> for this purpose last week. That list now has 1,036 people on it."We're just going to continue to put people on the list as they call in," McDonald said. "That way, we at least know what we need and where we need it at."Those who want to get on the list are asked to call&nbsp;660-822-1247 and follow the instructions laid out in the voicemail message.<div><div id="fb-root"></div>
<script async defer crossorigin="anonymous" src="https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v9.0" nonce="k5PdfyQw"></script></div><div><div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/tricountyhealthdept/posts/3787221001334350" data-width="500" data-show-text="true"><blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/tricountyhealthdept/posts/3787221001334350" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">Good Morning,

We are aware of the strain the current pandemic has put on the communities we serve. We are doing all we...Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/tricountyhealthdept/">Tri-County Health Department</a> on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/tricountyhealthdept/posts/3787221001334350">Tuesday, January 19, 2021</a></blockquote></div></div>You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

Tri-County Health Department not chosen to receive COVID vaccine supply this week

A St. Joseph state representative has been appointed chair of
the House Higher Education Committee.

Rep. Brenda Shields says it’s an honor to be chosen to head
the committee overseeing colleges and universities in the state.

“I’m very excited,” Shields tells St. Joseph Post.

Shields says the state’s colleges and universities have had to
handle a lot of adversity this past year, navigating the uncertainty posed by
the coronavirus pandemic.

“I know that Missouri Western (State University) has students
in school. I know that they also received a lot of CARES Act funding and they
all put it to good use,” Shields says. “Many of our universities used it to
change and update their ventilation systems, so that I think that we’re
prepared to even bring more students back to campus.”

A point of emphasis for Shields will be for the state’s
colleges and universities to work more closely together, not only to improve
efficiency, but to better meet the needs of the workforce. That workforce was
changing even before the pandemic.

“They need to learn how to share their programs and have
better articulation agreements so that they can be more cost effective,” Shields
says. “But at that same time, I think we’re also seeing that the jobs as we
come out of this pandemic are going to be different and we’re really going to
have to focus on training our workforce in those jobs.”

Shields also will retain her position as vice chair of the
Education Appropriations Committee under the House Budget Committee. Money always
plays a role in higher education with Shields saying the state budget which
will be fashioned this session will have a huge impact on the planning made by
Missouri colleges and universities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611081048281.jpeg" alt="Rep. Brenda Shields/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Brenda Shields/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph state representative has been appointed chair of
the House Higher Education Committee.Rep. Brenda Shields says it’s an honor to be chosen to head
the committee overseeing colleges and universities in the state.“I’m very excited,” Shields tells St. Joseph Post.Shields says the state’s colleges and universities have had to
handle a lot of adversity this past year, navigating the uncertainty posed by
the coronavirus pandemic.“I know that Missouri Western (State University) has students
in school. I know that they also received a lot of CARES Act funding and they
all put it to good use,” Shields says. “Many of our universities used it to
change and update their ventilation systems, so that I think that we’re
prepared to even bring more students back to campus.”A point of emphasis for Shields will be for the state’s
colleges and universities to work more closely together, not only to improve
efficiency, but to better meet the needs of the workforce. That workforce was
changing even before the pandemic.“They need to learn how to share their programs and have
better articulation agreements so that they can be more cost effective,” Shields
says. “But at that same time, I think we’re also seeing that the jobs as we
come out of this pandemic are going to be different and we’re really going to
have to focus on training our workforce in those jobs.”Shields also will retain her position as vice chair of the
Education Appropriations Committee under the House Budget Committee. Money always
plays a role in higher education with Shields saying the state budget which
will be fashioned this session will have a huge impact on the planning made by
Missouri colleges and universities.

St. Joseph state representative will chair Higher Education Committee

ST. JOSEPH —Christopher and Banks, a specialty women’s apparel retailer is closing all of its stores including 17 locations in Missouri and 15 in Kansas. The company operates a store in the East Hills Mall.

The Minneapolis-based company announced last week it filed for Chapter 11 in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey, according to a media release.

The Company has launched a store closing and liquidation process. The Company, however, will continue to operate its business in the ordinary course in the near term; and the Company is in active discussion with potential buyers for the sale of its eCommerce platform and related assets.

The company currently operates 449 stores in 44 states consisting of 315 MPW stores, 76 Outlet stores, 31 Christopher &amp; Banks stores, and 28 stores in its women’s plus size clothing division CJ Banks. The Company also operates the www.ChristopherandBanks.com eCommerce website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611003664699.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOSEPH —Christopher and Banks, a specialty women’s apparel retailer is closing all of its stores including 17 locations in Missouri and 15 in Kansas. The company operates a store in the East Hills Mall.The Minneapolis-based company announced last week it filed for Chapter 11 in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey, according to a media release.The Company has launched a store closing and liquidation process. The Company, however, will continue to operate its business in the ordinary course in the near term; and the Company is in active discussion with potential buyers for the sale of its eCommerce platform and related assets.The company currently operates 449 stores in 44 states consisting of 315 MPW stores, 76 Outlet stores, 31 Christopher &amp; Banks stores, and 28 stores in its women’s plus size clothing division CJ Banks. The Company also operates the www.ChristopherandBanks.com eCommerce website.

Christopher & Banks closing stores, files for bankruptcy

COVID-19
hospitalizations have started to trend down.

Mosaic
Life Care reported 45 total cases in its system Sunday with 51 total Monday morning. Mosaic reports 47 COVID-19 patients are being treated now at its St.
Joseph hospital with two in Maryville and two in Albany.

St. Joseph health officials reported on
Friday three more COVID-19 related deaths in Buchanan County. The victims were
a woman in her 80s and two men - one in his 50s and another in his 70s. The St. Joseph Health Department did not release a report on Monday, due to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day holiday.

There have now been 149 COVID-related deaths
in Buchanan County since the pandemic began. There were also 36 more cases
reported Friday for a county total of 9,255.

Andrew County reports 12 new cases and one
new death for a pandemic total of 17 fatalities and 1,862 cases.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports a total of 843 cases since the pandemic began. Brown County, Kansas reports 19 new cases for a total of 1,147. Atchison County, Kansas reports 28 new cases for a total of 1,372.

Statewide, Missouri health officials report 438,840
total cases with 6,256 deaths as of Monday.

Kansas health officials report 259,822 total
cases with 3,525 total deaths.

By BRENT MARTIN and TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostCOVID-19
hospitalizations have started to trend down.Mosaic
Life Care reported 45 total cases in its system Sunday with 51 total Monday morning. Mosaic reports 47 COVID-19 patients are being treated now at its St.
Joseph hospital with two in Maryville and two in Albany.St. Joseph health officials reported on
Friday three more COVID-19 related deaths in Buchanan County. The victims were
a woman in her 80s and two men - one in his 50s and another in his 70s. The St. Joseph Health Department did not release a report on Monday, due to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day holiday.There have now been 149 COVID-related deaths
in Buchanan County since the pandemic began. There were also 36 more cases
reported Friday for a county total of 9,255.Andrew County reports 12 new cases and one
new death for a pandemic total of 17 fatalities and 1,862 cases.Doniphan County, Kansas reports a total of 843 cases since the pandemic began. Brown County, Kansas reports 19 new cases for a total of 1,147. Atchison County, Kansas reports 28 new cases for a total of 1,372.Statewide, Missouri health officials report 438,840
total cases with 6,256 deaths as of Monday.Kansas health officials report 259,822 total
cases with 3,525 total deaths.

Local COVID-19 hospitalizations trending down

ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 9:30a.m. Monday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Peterbilt 389 driven by Roger L. Stewart, 63, Rich Hill, was southbound on Interstate 29 seven miles north of St. Joseph.

The vehicle traveled off the west side of the road, returned to the road. The vehicle's towed unit struck a guardrail and overturned.

Andrew County EMS transported Stewart to Mosaic Life Care. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 9:30a.m. Monday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Peterbilt 389 driven by Roger L. Stewart, 63, Rich Hill, was southbound on Interstate 29 seven miles north of St. Joseph.The vehicle traveled off the west side of the road, returned to the road. The vehicle's towed unit struck a guardrail and overturned.Andrew County EMS transported Stewart to Mosaic Life Care. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after semi overturns

A Weston man has been charged with arson and murder in the wake of a deadly house fire early Sunday.

24-year-old Anthony Fleming is charged&nbsp;with first-degree arson and second-degree murder.&nbsp;

Flemingly allegedly set fire to a home on Prospect Street in Weston intentionally between 1 and 2 a.m. Sunday. 60-year-old Timothy Darby of Weston was found dead in the home.

Fleming then allegedly fled from the scene on foot before authorities arrived.&nbsp;He was found about a mile from the home in a wooded area, wearing only socks.

If convicted, Fleming faces up to life in prison on each charge. He's currently being held without bond in the Platte County Detention Facility

Platte County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Zahnd said the charges were filed early Monday morning, following an investigation led by the Platte County Sheriff’s Office.

“Our detectives, deputies, the Weston Police Department, and prosecutors did an outstanding job working together, which resulted in the quick apprehension of this defendant,"&nbsp;Platte County Sheriff Mark Owen said in a release. "Their tireless work is the reason prosecutors will be able to seek justice for the victim and his family.

"I especially want to thank the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office and all of the fire and ambulance personnel who responded to the fire for their assistance at the fire scene and the Weston Police Department for their assistance in apprehending the subject and assisting with the investigation.”

The Sheriff’s Office and the Weston Police Department do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the public.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610999688941.png" alt="Fleming-photo Platte Co." />
 <figcaption>Fleming-photo Platte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA Weston man has been charged with arson and murder in the wake of a deadly house fire early Sunday.24-year-old Anthony Fleming is charged&nbsp;with first-degree arson and second-degree murder.&nbsp;Flemingly allegedly set fire to a home on Prospect Street in Weston intentionally between 1 and 2 a.m. Sunday. 60-year-old Timothy Darby of Weston was found dead in the home.Fleming then allegedly fled from the scene on foot before authorities arrived.&nbsp;He was found about a mile from the home in a wooded area, wearing only socks.If convicted, Fleming faces up to life in prison on each charge. He's currently being held without bond in the Platte County Detention FacilityPlatte County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Zahnd said the charges were filed early Monday morning, following an investigation led by the Platte County Sheriff’s Office.“Our detectives, deputies, the Weston Police Department, and prosecutors did an outstanding job working together, which resulted in the quick apprehension of this defendant,"&nbsp;Platte County Sheriff Mark Owen said in a release. "Their tireless work is the reason prosecutors will be able to seek justice for the victim and his family."I especially want to thank the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office and all of the fire and ambulance personnel who responded to the fire for their assistance at the fire scene and the Weston Police Department for their assistance in apprehending the subject and assisting with the investigation.”The Sheriff’s Office and the Weston Police Department do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the public.

One person charged in deadly Weston fire that killed one man early Sunday

Missouri Western State University is welcoming students back
to the St. Joseph campus, hoping to build on the experiences learned in living
with the coronavirus pandemic in the fall semester.

Interim President Elizabeth Kennedy says Missouri Western has
worked hard to make sure that its students get the full college experience
despite COVID-19 restrictions.

“For example, in the fall, we did a football watch party in
the stadium that was socially distanced, projected on the big screen, those
kinds of things,” Kennedy tells St. Joseph Post. “So, looking at things that we
can do to enhance the experience of students I think is one of our top
priorities.”

Kennedy says a survey of Missouri Western students indicated
more than 85% felt very safe on campus.

Kennedy says a lot of preparation has gone into the start of
this semester.

“Overall, we’re excited to get back to it,” Kennedy says. “And
I think everyone is excited to see how this vaccination process will roll out
for us.”

Missouri Western hasn’t been notified when it will get
coronavirus vaccine.

Kennedy acknowledges that the excitement of a new semester is
mingled with anxiety about the coronavirus pandemic.

“I think our anxiety comes from watching what happens with our
county numbers, our city numbers, and then just looking forward to what the
vaccine might be able to do to mitigate the presence of COVID on our campus.”

Kennedy says she relies on two COVID response teams as well as
a COVID coordinator to guide the university during the pandemic.

Missouri Western begins the new semester tomorrow. Today is Martin
Luther King, Jr. Day, a federal and state holiday.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University is welcoming students back
to the St. Joseph campus, hoping to build on the experiences learned in living
with the coronavirus pandemic in the fall semester.Interim President Elizabeth Kennedy says Missouri Western has
worked hard to make sure that its students get the full college experience
despite COVID-19 restrictions.“For example, in the fall, we did a football watch party in
the stadium that was socially distanced, projected on the big screen, those
kinds of things,” Kennedy tells St. Joseph Post. “So, looking at things that we
can do to enhance the experience of students I think is one of our top
priorities.”Kennedy says a survey of Missouri Western students indicated
more than 85% felt very safe on campus.Kennedy says a lot of preparation has gone into the start of
this semester.“Overall, we’re excited to get back to it,” Kennedy says. “And
I think everyone is excited to see how this vaccination process will roll out
for us.”Missouri Western hasn’t been notified when it will get
coronavirus vaccine.Kennedy acknowledges that the excitement of a new semester is
mingled with anxiety about the coronavirus pandemic.“I think our anxiety comes from watching what happens with our
county numbers, our city numbers, and then just looking forward to what the
vaccine might be able to do to mitigate the presence of COVID on our campus.”Kennedy says she relies on two COVID response teams as well as
a COVID coordinator to guide the university during the pandemic.Missouri Western begins the new semester tomorrow. Today is Martin
Luther King, Jr. Day, a federal and state holiday.

MWSU hopes fall semester success carries over into new semester

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Dr. Lee Norman. 

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: KDHE Secretary Lee Norman" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/t83ab-f7a768?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Dr. Lee Norman.

🎤Forward Ever: KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman

DEKALB COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Sunday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Chevy S10 driven by Bradley S. Martin, 47, Maysville, was eastbound on Route O four miles south of Maysville.

The pickup traveled off the left side of the road, struck a culvert and overturned. DeKalb-Clinton EMS transported Martin to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Sunday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Chevy S10 driven by Bradley S. Martin, 47, Maysville, was eastbound on Route O four miles south of Maysville.The pickup traveled off the left side of the road, struck a culvert and overturned. DeKalb-Clinton EMS transported Martin to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Maysville man hospitalized after pickup overturns 

BUCHANAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Friday in Buchanan County. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Ford pickup driven by Sheri D. Aubuchon, 51, Platte City, was northbound on Interstate 29 two miles south of Faucett.

The driver lost control on the ice covered bridge. The pickup skidded off the right side of the road, struck a guardrail, returned to the road and struck a northbound 2016 International Box Truck driven by Gregory W. Marshall, 60, Kearney, Missouri.&nbsp;

Buchanan County ambulance transported Aubuchon to Mosaic Life Care. Marshall was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 10p.m. Friday in Buchanan County. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Ford pickup driven by Sheri D. Aubuchon, 51, Platte City, was northbound on Interstate 29 two miles south of Faucett.The driver lost control on the ice covered bridge. The pickup skidded off the right side of the road, struck a guardrail, returned to the road and struck a northbound 2016 International Box Truck driven by Gregory W. Marshall, 60, Kearney, Missouri.&nbsp;Buchanan County ambulance transported Aubuchon to Mosaic Life Care. Marshall was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Platte City woman injured after crash on icy bridge

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 9p.m. Friday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Pickup driven by Preston M. Wilmes, 49, Winterset, IA., was northbound on Interstate 35 two miles north of Bethany.

The pickup traveled off the west side of the road, struck a crossover, went airborne and came to rest in the median.

NTA ambulance transported Wilmes to Harrison County Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 9p.m. Friday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Pickup driven by Preston M. Wilmes, 49, Winterset, IA., was northbound on Interstate 35 two miles north of Bethany.The pickup traveled off the west side of the road, struck a crossover, went airborne and came to rest in the median.NTA ambulance transported Wilmes to Harrison County Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Driver hospitalized after pickup goes airborne

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Friday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Impala driven by Jeffrey A. Hale, 59, Jamesport, was eastbound on Highway A nine miles northwest of Chillicothe.

The driver lost control on the slush. The car slid off the road. The car's undercarriage struck the ground and the vehicle overturned and struck trees.

Chillicothe EMS transported Hale to Hedrick Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, accordin to the MSHP.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Friday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Impala driven by Jeffrey A. Hale, 59, Jamesport, was eastbound on Highway A nine miles northwest of Chillicothe.The driver lost control on the slush. The car slid off the road. The car's undercarriage struck the ground and the vehicle overturned and struck trees.Chillicothe EMS transported Hale to Hedrick Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, accordin to the MSHP.