If you want to work in manufacturing, St. Joseph is the top
spot to land.

That, according to SmartAsset which named St. Joseph number
one out of 378 metro areas analyzed nationwide.

St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Patt Lilly says,
ironically, the coronavirus pandemic helped raised St. Joseph’s profile when
many of its manufacturers were declared essential and kept producing while the
rest of the country shut down.

“COVID has brought forward too, I think, a realization that
there’s opportunity in these rural areas of the country, whether it be St.
Joseph, northwest Missouri, or many other areas around the country. These are
areas that I think site selectors and companies are beginning to take note of,”
Lilly tells St. Joseph Post.

SmartAsset says St. Joseph’s low unemployment rate, its job
growth, and its wage growth led to its top ranking. Nearly a quarter of the St.
Joseph workforce is employed in manufacturing.

Lilly credits trade for the strength of St. Joseph
manufacturing.

“We are a very strong export market here,” Lilly says. “In
other words, we export a fair amount of product that comes out of St. Joseph.
We’re the third leading exporter as a community in this state. That obviously
tells you there’s a lot of manufactured goods being done here.”

In Missouri, only the major metropolitan areas of St. Louis
and Kansas City export more goods than St. Joseph.

Jobs in St. Joseph grew by 8.3% over the past year with income
growing 5.6%.

Lilly says the chamber can use the ranking by SmartAsset to
lure businesses here, but also to fill the jobs already here.

“We’ll use it for talent attraction, attracting people to the community
that have the skills,” Lilly says. “The truth is that the manufacturers here
can’t find enough people to take the jobs that are here.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostIf you want to work in manufacturing, St. Joseph is the top
spot to land.That, according to SmartAsset which named St. Joseph number
one out of 378 metro areas analyzed nationwide.St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President Patt Lilly says,
ironically, the coronavirus pandemic helped raised St. Joseph’s profile when
many of its manufacturers were declared essential and kept producing while the
rest of the country shut down.“COVID has brought forward too, I think, a realization that
there’s opportunity in these rural areas of the country, whether it be St.
Joseph, northwest Missouri, or many other areas around the country. These are
areas that I think site selectors and companies are beginning to take note of,”
Lilly tells St. Joseph Post.SmartAsset says St. Joseph’s low unemployment rate, its job
growth, and its wage growth led to its top ranking. Nearly a quarter of the St.
Joseph workforce is employed in manufacturing.Lilly credits trade for the strength of St. Joseph
manufacturing.“We are a very strong export market here,” Lilly says. “In
other words, we export a fair amount of product that comes out of St. Joseph.
We’re the third leading exporter as a community in this state. That obviously
tells you there’s a lot of manufactured goods being done here.”In Missouri, only the major metropolitan areas of St. Louis
and Kansas City export more goods than St. Joseph.Jobs in St. Joseph grew by 8.3% over the past year with income
growing 5.6%.Lilly says the chamber can use the ranking by SmartAsset to
lure businesses here, but also to fill the jobs already here.“We’ll use it for talent attraction, attracting people to the community
that have the skills,” Lilly says. “The truth is that the manufacturers here
can’t find enough people to take the jobs that are here.”

St. Joseph ranks #1 for those working in manufacturing

ATCHISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1:30a.m. Friday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Ford Freestar driven by Brandon S. Medina, 32, Omaha, was southbound on Interstate 29 five miles north of Rockport.

The vehicle rear-ended the towed unit of a southbound 2019 International semi driven by Nicholas R. White, 27, Beatrice. After impact the Ford traveled down an embankment and into a fence.

Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Medina to the hospital in Hamburg, Iowa. White was not injured. Medina was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1:30a.m. Friday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Ford Freestar driven by Brandon S. Medina, 32, Omaha, was southbound on Interstate 29 five miles north of Rockport.The vehicle rear-ended the towed unit of a southbound 2019 International semi driven by Nicholas R. White, 27, Beatrice. After impact the Ford traveled down an embankment and into a fence.Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Medina to the hospital in Hamburg, Iowa. White was not injured. Medina was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Driver hospitalized after car rear-ends semi's trailer

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/akitz-f562e0?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 Attorney General Derek Schmidt.

🎤Forward Ever: Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt

True
West magazine has named St. Joseph the “Best Historic Town Tour” of 2021.

St.
Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau spokeswoman, Beth Conway, says it’s great
news after a rough tourism season.

“We
all know what 2020 has been like and, so, to get some good attention and
affection from the editorial staff at True West towards the end of this year is
amazing,” Conway tells St. Joseph Post.

Conway,
says it’s no secret the coronavirus pandemic wrecked tourism in 2020. She
expects a rebound in 2021 and says the honor by True West magazine should help
St. Joseph lure tourists, especially those wanting to visit smaller cities they
can reach during a road trip. Conway says research indicates people want to get
out again after being cooped up this year and they’re looking at road trips.

“They
also are indicating that they’re ready to go back to cities, but they’re not
quite ready for larger cities,” according to Conway. “They want to check out
the smaller cities, where it’s less populated and probably a little bit more
safe and we fit the bill for that. So, we’re hoping that with people getting
anxious to get back out there that they consider St. Joseph, because we’re
perfect for what they’re looking for.”

Conway
says the True West designation is a great way to say goodbye to a tough year
and look forward to a better tourism year.

“To
be designated as a top tour town I hope will have some impact on us for next
year, for tourism. We’re hoping to see an uptick in tourism after 2020 and this
is just a good way to kick off the year,”

True
West magazine makes the designation for St. Joseph official in its January 5th
issue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608311889198.jpeg" alt="Pony Express Stables/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Pony Express Stables/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostTrue
West magazine has named St. Joseph the “Best Historic Town Tour” of 2021.St.
Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau spokeswoman, Beth Conway, says it’s great
news after a rough tourism season.“We
all know what 2020 has been like and, so, to get some good attention and
affection from the editorial staff at True West towards the end of this year is
amazing,” Conway tells St. Joseph Post.Conway,
says it’s no secret the coronavirus pandemic wrecked tourism in 2020. She
expects a rebound in 2021 and says the honor by True West magazine should help
St. Joseph lure tourists, especially those wanting to visit smaller cities they
can reach during a road trip. Conway says research indicates people want to get
out again after being cooped up this year and they’re looking at road trips.“They
also are indicating that they’re ready to go back to cities, but they’re not
quite ready for larger cities,” according to Conway. “They want to check out
the smaller cities, where it’s less populated and probably a little bit more
safe and we fit the bill for that. So, we’re hoping that with people getting
anxious to get back out there that they consider St. Joseph, because we’re
perfect for what they’re looking for.”Conway
says the True West designation is a great way to say goodbye to a tough year
and look forward to a better tourism year.“To
be designated as a top tour town I hope will have some impact on us for next
year, for tourism. We’re hoping to see an uptick in tourism after 2020 and this
is just a good way to kick off the year,”True
West magazine makes the designation for St. Joseph official in its January 5th
issue.

True West names St. Joseph "Best Historic Town Tour" of 2021

St.
Joseph health officials report 91 new coronavirus cases and two additional
deaths even as Mosaic Life Care reports hospitalizations continue to do down.

The
St. Joseph Health Department reports a man in his 80’s and a woman in her 90’s
died from COVID-19 complications.

Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 59 total COVID-19 patients in its system; 52
in St. Joseph, five in Maryville, and two in Albany.

Mosaic
has now tested 57,730 area residents with 7,282 testing positive.

Buchanan
County reports a total of 7,706 cases with 114 deaths.

Andrew
County reports 12 new cases, bringing its total to 1,452 with 15
deaths.

Doniphan
County, Kansas reports a total of 604 coronavirus cases.

Missouri
reports 356,607 total cases with 4,834 deaths.

Kansas
reports 194,569 cases and 2,253 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt.
Joseph health officials report 91 new coronavirus cases and two additional
deaths even as Mosaic Life Care reports hospitalizations continue to do down.The
St. Joseph Health Department reports a man in his 80’s and a woman in her 90’s
died from COVID-19 complications.Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 59 total COVID-19 patients in its system; 52
in St. Joseph, five in Maryville, and two in Albany.Mosaic
has now tested 57,730 area residents with 7,282 testing positive.Buchanan
County reports a total of 7,706 cases with 114 deaths.Andrew
County reports 12 new cases, bringing its total to 1,452 with 15
deaths.Doniphan
County, Kansas reports a total of 604 coronavirus cases.Missouri
reports 356,607 total cases with 4,834 deaths.Kansas
reports 194,569 cases and 2,253 deaths.

St. Joseph reports 91 new COVID-19 cases, two additional deaths

Missouri
River flood victims might be getting a check from the federal government after
a federal judge ruled Army Corps of Engineers’ efforts to protect endangered
species violated their rights.

US
Court of Federal Claims Judge Nancy Firestone rules the Corps caused flooding
when it changed habitat on the Missouri River in an effort to comply with the
Endangered Species Act. Her ruling finds the Corps violated the constitutional rights
of landowners, in effect, taking their property without compensation.

The
Ideker Farms vs. the US ruling could have wide-ranging impact. Property owners
from Sioux City, Iowa all the way to St. Louis have been affected by the Corps
management of the Missouri River and could be in line for payment.

The
ruling has its limits and is not expected to cover all flood-related damages.

Firestone
has set a January 15th deadline for the federal government to
propose payments due landowners.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri
River flood victims might be getting a check from the federal government after
a federal judge ruled Army Corps of Engineers’ efforts to protect endangered
species violated their rights.US
Court of Federal Claims Judge Nancy Firestone rules the Corps caused flooding
when it changed habitat on the Missouri River in an effort to comply with the
Endangered Species Act. Her ruling finds the Corps violated the constitutional rights
of landowners, in effect, taking their property without compensation.The
Ideker Farms vs. the US ruling could have wide-ranging impact. Property owners
from Sioux City, Iowa all the way to St. Louis have been affected by the Corps
management of the Missouri River and could be in line for payment.The
ruling has its limits and is not expected to cover all flood-related damages.Firestone
has set a January 15th deadline for the federal government to
propose payments due landowners.

Judge rules Army Corps violated landowner rights in habitat change

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Thursday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by Michael T. Crookshank, 28, Smithville, was eastbound on MO 116 two miles two miles east of Lathrop.

The driver attempted to pass another eastbound vehicle and traveled into the path of a westbound 2012 Ford Fiesta driven by Michelle E. Stanley, 52, Polo.

Tri-County EMS transported Stanley to North Kansas City Hospital. Crookshank was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Thursday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by Michael T. Crookshank, 28, Smithville, was eastbound on MO 116 two miles two miles east of Lathrop.The driver attempted to pass another eastbound vehicle and traveled into the path of a westbound 2012 Ford Fiesta driven by Michelle E. Stanley, 52, Polo.Tri-County EMS transported Stanley to North Kansas City Hospital. Crookshank was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.___

Missouri woman hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

St. Joseph health officials report 92 new cases of coronavirus
on Wednesday with four additional deaths.

Health officials say a woman in her 60’s, a man in his 60’s, a
man in his 70’s, and a man in his 90’s died from COVID-19 complications.

The four deaths bring the Buchanan County death toll to 112.
The county has recorded a total of 7,615 cases.

Andrew County reports an additional two deaths on its COVID-19
dashboard, bringing its total of 15. Andrew County has recorded 1,439 cases
since the pandemic began.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports its total cases has now topped
600 with 604 cases.

Mosaic Life Care reports it is treating 53 COVID-19 patients
in its system; 50 in St. Joseph, two in Maryville, and one in Albany.

Mosaic has tested 57,366 area residents with 7,248
testing positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 182 tests.

Missouri reports 353,038 with 4,799 deaths.

Kansas reports 194,569 total cases, resulting in 2,253 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report 92 new cases of coronavirus
on Wednesday with four additional deaths.Health officials say a woman in her 60’s, a man in his 60’s, a
man in his 70’s, and a man in his 90’s died from COVID-19 complications.The four deaths bring the Buchanan County death toll to 112.
The county has recorded a total of 7,615 cases.Andrew County reports an additional two deaths on its COVID-19
dashboard, bringing its total of 15. Andrew County has recorded 1,439 cases
since the pandemic began.Doniphan County, Kansas reports its total cases has now topped
600 with 604 cases.Mosaic Life Care reports it is treating 53 COVID-19 patients
in its system; 50 in St. Joseph, two in Maryville, and one in Albany.Mosaic has tested 57,366 area residents with 7,248
testing positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 182 tests.Missouri reports 353,038 with 4,799 deaths.Kansas reports 194,569 total cases, resulting in 2,253 deaths.

92 new COVID-19 cases, 4 more deaths reported by St. Joseph health officials

A
shopper has come forward with the winning grand-prize ticket in the annual Shop St.
Joseph Holiday Program.

The
St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce has confirmed a winner has claimed the $10,000
prize and will be unveiled this afternoon.

The
chamber does encourage shoppers to keep their tickets. Second-chance prize
numbers are posted on <a href="https://saintjoseph.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/second-chance-prize-NUMBERS.pdf">saintjoseph.com</a>.

Certified
public accountants oversee the program. Nearly two million tickets were given
out this year through 117 local merchants which participated.

This
is the 14th year for the local holiday shopping program which
encourages holiday spending in the local economy. Shop St. Joseph is presented
by News-Press NOW.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608228115061.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA
shopper has come forward with the winning grand-prize ticket in the annual Shop St.
Joseph Holiday Program.The
St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce has confirmed a winner has claimed the $10,000
prize and will be unveiled this afternoon.The
chamber does encourage shoppers to keep their tickets. Second-chance prize
numbers are posted on <a href="https://saintjoseph.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/second-chance-prize-NUMBERS.pdf">saintjoseph.com</a>.Certified
public accountants oversee the program. Nearly two million tickets were given
out this year through 117 local merchants which participated.This
is the 14th year for the local holiday shopping program which
encourages holiday spending in the local economy. Shop St. Joseph is presented
by News-Press NOW.

Winner comes forward to claim grand prize in Shop St. Joseph

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

The shopper with the winning ticket has 24 hours to come forward to claim the $10,000 prize. Shoppers are urged to keep their tickets because if the winner hasn’t come forward by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 17, another number will be announced. This process will continue at 5 p.m. on weekdays until a winner comes forward with the winning ticket. Exclusions include Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

The winner MUST call the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce at (816) 232-4461 during business hours or (816) 261-3610 after business hours to arrange a time to verify the ticket.&nbsp;He or she MUST come to the Chamber office at 3003 Frederick Ave. before 5 p.m. Thursday to claim the prize.

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

The winner will be responsible for any applicable taxes.

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

Certified public accountants provided oversight of the program. About 2 million tickets were distributed this year through the 117 participating merchants. This is up from 59 merchants in 2007.

This is the 14th year for the local holiday shopping program. The program’s goal is to keep holiday spending in the local economy, so sales tax collected goes back into helping St. Joseph and Buchanan County projects. Shop St. Joseph is presented by News-Press NOW.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608204312308.jpeg" alt="Shop St. Joe winning ticket/Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Shop St. Joe winning ticket/Photo courtesy of St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>The winning number for the Shop St. Joseph Holiday Program is:<h2>1262767</h2>The shopper with the winning ticket has 24 hours to come forward to claim the $10,000 prize. Shoppers are urged to keep their tickets because if the winner hasn’t come forward by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 17, another number will be announced. This process will continue at 5 p.m. on weekdays until a winner comes forward with the winning ticket. Exclusions include Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.The winner MUST call the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce at (816) 232-4461 during business hours or (816) 261-3610 after business hours to arrange a time to verify the ticket.&nbsp;He or she MUST come to the Chamber office at 3003 Frederick Ave. before 5 p.m. Thursday to claim the prize.The winner must be 18 or older. Proof of age, Social Security number, home address and place of employment (if applicable) is required to claim the prize. Chamber of Commerce staff, Chamber officers and their immediate family members (dependents living at the same address) are not eligible to win the grand prize. Participating business owners, managers and employees are eligible to win, with the exception of tickets distributed through their own place of business (including other participating locations).The winner will be responsible for any applicable taxes.One winning number per each second-chance prize were also drawn today. Those numbers will be announced&nbsp;after&nbsp;the grand prize ticket has been verified.Certified public accountants provided oversight of the program. About 2 million tickets were distributed this year through the 117 participating merchants. This is up from 59 merchants in 2007.This is the 14th year for the local holiday shopping program. The program’s goal is to keep holiday spending in the local economy, so sales tax collected goes back into helping St. Joseph and Buchanan County projects. Shop St. Joseph is presented by News-Press NOW.

Grand prize Shop St. Joseph number Is….

MERCER COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Wednesday in Mercer County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 GMC Envoy driven by John E. Stewart, 44, Madison, IN., was westbound on U.S. 136 eight miles west of Princeton.

The vehicle traveled off the north side of the road. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle traveled across the highway, traveled off the south side of the road, struck and embankment and a barbed wire fence.&nbsp;

Mercer County EMS transported Stewart to Harrison County Community Hospital. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

MERCER COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Wednesday in Mercer County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 GMC Envoy driven by John E. Stewart, 44, Madison, IN., was westbound on U.S. 136 eight miles west of Princeton.The vehicle traveled off the north side of the road. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle traveled across the highway, traveled off the south side of the road, struck and embankment and a barbed wire fence.&nbsp;Mercer County EMS transported Stewart to Harrison County Community Hospital. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Man hospitalized after SUV overturns, strikes barbed wire fence

A push to recruit more doctors to rural America begins in St.
Joseph with the expansion of the UMKC School of Medicine at Mosaic Life Care.

UMKC has announced it received a $7 million federal grant to
begin offering classes at the Mosaic St. Joseph hospital.

School of Medicine Dean Mary Anne Jackson says medical
students who study in rural settings often work in rural settings.

“Students training in rural programs are three times as likely
to remain in practice in those areas,” Jackson tells a Zoom audience during an
announcement. “Our goals are to recruit students from rural communities or who
are committed to rural health care and prepare them with the same innovative
curriculum as students receive on the Kansas City campus as they live and learn
in St. Joseph.”

The grant comes from the Health Resources and Services
Administration.

State Rep. Brenda Shields of St. Joseph says the move will
likely increase the number of UMKC graduates by 20%.

“This is an exciting day for UMKC School of Medicine,” Shields
says in the Zoom call. “It is an exciting day for Mosaic Life Care, but it is
an absolutely best day for St. Joseph, Missouri and northwest Missouri, because
these students are going to be a part of our community. And I just ask that we
open our hearts and our arms and we welcome them and embrace them and be excited
they’re with us.”

U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt says the money became available when
Congress became aware of the need, allocating $25 million in the medical
student education fund in 2019 followed by $50 million in 2020. UMKC met the
criteria and received the money.

Mosaic CEO, Dr. Mark Laney, calls UMKC an ideal partner.

“And I am absolutely certain we will provide an excellent
learning experience for our young physicians,” Laney tells the Zoom audience.

Mosaic Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner, says the
partnership fits well with Mosaic’s goals.

“Our mission is to provide the highest quality care at the
right time in the right place to rural northwest Missouri,” Turner says.

Turner says medical students will learn virtually for their first
two years, then will be taught within the St. Joseph hospital, which has
classrooms and labs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608156771964.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Life Care officials pose in UMKC School of Medicine classroom at the St. Joseph hospital/Photo courtesy of Mosaic Life Care" />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Life Care officials pose in UMKC School of Medicine classroom at the St. Joseph hospital/Photo courtesy of Mosaic Life Care</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA push to recruit more doctors to rural America begins in St.
Joseph with the expansion of the UMKC School of Medicine at Mosaic Life Care.UMKC has announced it received a $7 million federal grant to
begin offering classes at the Mosaic St. Joseph hospital.School of Medicine Dean Mary Anne Jackson says medical
students who study in rural settings often work in rural settings.“Students training in rural programs are three times as likely
to remain in practice in those areas,” Jackson tells a Zoom audience during an
announcement. “Our goals are to recruit students from rural communities or who
are committed to rural health care and prepare them with the same innovative
curriculum as students receive on the Kansas City campus as they live and learn
in St. Joseph.”The grant comes from the Health Resources and Services
Administration.State Rep. Brenda Shields of St. Joseph says the move will
likely increase the number of UMKC graduates by 20%.“This is an exciting day for UMKC School of Medicine,” Shields
says in the Zoom call. “It is an exciting day for Mosaic Life Care, but it is
an absolutely best day for St. Joseph, Missouri and northwest Missouri, because
these students are going to be a part of our community. And I just ask that we
open our hearts and our arms and we welcome them and embrace them and be excited
they’re with us.”U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt says the money became available when
Congress became aware of the need, allocating $25 million in the medical
student education fund in 2019 followed by $50 million in 2020. UMKC met the
criteria and received the money.Mosaic CEO, Dr. Mark Laney, calls UMKC an ideal partner.“And I am absolutely certain we will provide an excellent
learning experience for our young physicians,” Laney tells the Zoom audience.Mosaic Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner, says the
partnership fits well with Mosaic’s goals.“Our mission is to provide the highest quality care at the
right time in the right place to rural northwest Missouri,” Turner says.Turner says medical students will learn virtually for their first
two years, then will be taught within the St. Joseph hospital, which has
classrooms and labs.

UMKC School of Medicine expands into St. Joseph

Second Harvest Community Food Bank Chief Executive Officer,
Chad Higdon, will have a national voice in advocating for food banks across the
country.

Higdon has been elected Vice Chair of Feeding America’s Policy
Engagement and Advocacy Committee.

Higdon says Feeding America represents a diverse group with
wide-ranging opinions on how best to approach hunger programs.

“We really do represent a lot of different parts of the
country and there are committee members from Arizona and Alaska and Florida
and, really, all over the place,” Higdon tells St. Joseph Post. “So, just to
bring our voices kind of together and to help make sure that we all are on the
same page and understand that we can’t always please everybody, but everybody
has a voice and we are going to make sure that it’s heard and really ultimately
do what we feel is best to help serve families in need.”

Higdon says that voice is needed now more than ever as many
families that haven’t struggled with buying food find themselves in need, due
to the coronavirus pandemic.

Higdon says in his new role, he will help shape Feeding
America strategy and will speak to lawmakers in Washington about the needs
facing Americans.

“There are a lot of families that are really struggling right
now and the work of the USDA to push additional food through our network has
been very helpful and use of National Guard support has been extremely helpful,”
according to Higdon. “So, we really do rely on the public entities to help us
with our work and make sure at the end of the day everybody has food on the
table.”

A Higdon says the USDA Emergency Food Assistance Program has
been vital in getting food to people in need, especially during the economic
disruption of the coronavirus pandemic.

As food pantries respond during the pandemic, their efforts
serve as the best advertising charities such as Second Harvest can have, Higdon
says.

“When you look at the national news stories, it really
highlighted the lines of cars going through mobile distributions. It really
gave us an opportunity for our voice to be heard and show what we can do and
the impact that we can have.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608137086750.jpeg" alt="Chad Higdon/Photo courtesy of Second Harvest" />
 <figcaption>Chad Higdon/Photo courtesy of Second Harvest</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSecond Harvest Community Food Bank Chief Executive Officer,
Chad Higdon, will have a national voice in advocating for food banks across the
country.Higdon has been elected Vice Chair of Feeding America’s Policy
Engagement and Advocacy Committee.Higdon says Feeding America represents a diverse group with
wide-ranging opinions on how best to approach hunger programs.“We really do represent a lot of different parts of the
country and there are committee members from Arizona and Alaska and Florida
and, really, all over the place,” Higdon tells St. Joseph Post. “So, just to
bring our voices kind of together and to help make sure that we all are on the
same page and understand that we can’t always please everybody, but everybody
has a voice and we are going to make sure that it’s heard and really ultimately
do what we feel is best to help serve families in need.”Higdon says that voice is needed now more than ever as many
families that haven’t struggled with buying food find themselves in need, due
to the coronavirus pandemic.Higdon says in his new role, he will help shape Feeding
America strategy and will speak to lawmakers in Washington about the needs
facing Americans.“There are a lot of families that are really struggling right
now and the work of the USDA to push additional food through our network has
been very helpful and use of National Guard support has been extremely helpful,”
according to Higdon. “So, we really do rely on the public entities to help us
with our work and make sure at the end of the day everybody has food on the
table.”A Higdon says the USDA Emergency Food Assistance Program has
been vital in getting food to people in need, especially during the economic
disruption of the coronavirus pandemic.As food pantries respond during the pandemic, their efforts
serve as the best advertising charities such as Second Harvest can have, Higdon
says.“When you look at the national news stories, it really
highlighted the lines of cars going through mobile distributions. It really
gave us an opportunity for our voice to be heard and show what we can do and
the impact that we can have.”

2nd Harvest CEO gets leadership role to shape Feeding America policy

Missouri Gov. Mike
Parson has appointed Bob Wollenman to the Missouri Western State University
Board of Governors.

Wollenman is a
managing partner of Deluxe Truck Stop in St. Joseph, overseeing annual budgets,
financial records, and workforce management.

Wollenman is
immediate past chair of the National Association of Truckstop Owners. He is a member of Missouri Western State University Foundation board
and the Progressive Community Services board.

Wollenman has also served as a board member of
the United Way of St. Joseph and St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.

Wollenman is a graduate of Missouri Western
State University with a bachelor of science in marketing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608131815025.jpeg" alt="Bob Wollenman (middle left) speaks with Congressman Sam Graves during a visit Graves made to Deluxe Truck Stop" />
 <figcaption>Bob Wollenman (middle left) speaks with Congressman Sam Graves during a visit Graves made to Deluxe Truck Stop</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Gov. Mike
Parson has appointed Bob Wollenman to the Missouri Western State University
Board of Governors.Wollenman is a
managing partner of Deluxe Truck Stop in St. Joseph, overseeing annual budgets,
financial records, and workforce management.Wollenman is
immediate past chair of the National Association of Truckstop Owners. He is a member of Missouri Western State University Foundation board
and the Progressive Community Services board.Wollenman has also served as a board member of
the United Way of St. Joseph and St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.Wollenman is a graduate of Missouri Western
State University with a bachelor of science in marketing.

Gov. Parson appoints Wollenman to MWSU Board of Governors

St.
Joseph health officials report 85 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday and two additional
deaths.

The
St. Joseph Health Department reports 12 coronavirus-related deaths since Friday,
bringing the Buchanan County total to 108.

A
man and a woman, both in their 60s, died of COVID-19 Tuesday. St. Joseph health
officials also report a man in his 60s, two men in their 70s, and one in his
80s died of the virus. A woman in her 70s and three in their 80s also died.

Buchanan
County has now recorded 7,523 total COVID-19 cases.

Andrew
County reports a total of 1,438 cases with 13 deaths.

Doniphan
County, Kansas reports a total of 589 cases.

Missouri
health officials report a total of 350,365 cases, resulting in
4,754 deaths.

Kansas
reports 190,018 cases and 2,109 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt.
Joseph health officials report 85 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday and two additional
deaths.The
St. Joseph Health Department reports 12 coronavirus-related deaths since Friday,
bringing the Buchanan County total to 108.A
man and a woman, both in their 60s, died of COVID-19 Tuesday. St. Joseph health
officials also report a man in his 60s, two men in their 70s, and one in his
80s died of the virus. A woman in her 70s and three in their 80s also died.Buchanan
County has now recorded 7,523 total COVID-19 cases.Andrew
County reports a total of 1,438 cases with 13 deaths.Doniphan
County, Kansas reports a total of 589 cases.Missouri
health officials report a total of 350,365 cases, resulting in
4,754 deaths.Kansas
reports 190,018 cases and 2,109 deaths.

Buchanan County COVID-19 death toll surpasses 100

A 21-year-old St. Joseph man has been charged with second
degree murder after a 31-year-old died from wounds suffered in a shooting.

St. Joseph police arrested 21-year-old Johnnie Kyle Hollowell
at the scene of the shooting very early Tuesday, near 11th Street
and Corby Parkway.

Police say officers found Terry Smith, Junior mortally wounded
in a vehicle. Smith was rushed to the Mosaic Life Care hospital in St. Joseph
where he was pronounced dead.

Others might be charged in the fatal shooting.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 21-year-old St. Joseph man has been charged with second
degree murder after a 31-year-old died from wounds suffered in a shooting.St. Joseph police arrested 21-year-old Johnnie Kyle Hollowell
at the scene of the shooting very early Tuesday, near 11th Street
and Corby Parkway.Police say officers found Terry Smith, Junior mortally wounded
in a vehicle. Smith was rushed to the Mosaic Life Care hospital in St. Joseph
where he was pronounced dead.Others might be charged in the fatal shooting.The investigation continues.

21-year-old charged in St. Joseph shooting death

BROWN COUNTY- Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman for alleged child sex crimes.

Following an investigation, deputies arrested Austyn Koch, 19, of Hiawatha requested charges of Indecent Liberties with a Child, Criminal Sodomy, and Sexual Exploitation of a Child, according to&nbsp;Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.

She is also being held on requested charges that include marijuana possession, and liquor purchased by a minor, according to online jail records. She remains in custody on a $75,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607982558158.png" alt="Koch photo Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>Koch photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY- Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman for alleged child sex crimes.Following an investigation, deputies arrested Austyn Koch, 19, of Hiawatha requested charges of Indecent Liberties with a Child, Criminal Sodomy, and Sexual Exploitation of a Child, according to&nbsp;Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.She is also being held on requested charges that include marijuana possession, and liquor purchased by a minor, according to online jail records. She remains in custody on a $75,000 bond.

Kansas teen jailed for alleged child sex crimes

No one was hit, no one wounded when shots were fired at
Buchanan County deputies pursing a vehicle with suspects from an armed robbery
south of St. Joseph.

Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett says deputies responded to
an armed robbery call shortly after noon Sunday. The deputies attempted to stop
the car, but it fled.

“At which time, a pursuit was undertaken due to the nature of
the call, an armed robbery with a firearm,” Puett tells St. Joseph Post.

St. Joseph police officers and troopers from the Missouri
State Highway Patrol joined in on the pursuit when it entered the city limits.

“During the pursuit, our deputies were the lead cars and a
suspect from the suspect vehicle fired shots at the deputy,” according to Puett,
who says the shots didn’t hit anything, didn’t wound anyone.

Puett says the deputies did not fire back.

“So, it came from a moving vehicle at our deputies, so our
deputies, obviously, did not return fire.”

The suspects ditched the car at 18th and Locust and
fled on foot.

Puett says arrests were made. No charges have been filed, yet.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNo one was hit, no one wounded when shots were fired at
Buchanan County deputies pursing a vehicle with suspects from an armed robbery
south of St. Joseph.Buchanan County Sheriff Bill Puett says deputies responded to
an armed robbery call shortly after noon Sunday. The deputies attempted to stop
the car, but it fled.“At which time, a pursuit was undertaken due to the nature of
the call, an armed robbery with a firearm,” Puett tells St. Joseph Post.St. Joseph police officers and troopers from the Missouri
State Highway Patrol joined in on the pursuit when it entered the city limits.“During the pursuit, our deputies were the lead cars and a
suspect from the suspect vehicle fired shots at the deputy,” according to Puett,
who says the shots didn’t hit anything, didn’t wound anyone.Puett says the deputies did not fire back.“So, it came from a moving vehicle at our deputies, so our
deputies, obviously, did not return fire.”The suspects ditched the car at 18th and Locust and
fled on foot.Puett says arrests were made. No charges have been filed, yet.

No one hurt after shots fired during Buchanan County pursuit

A charity which pays off the mortgages of fallen police
officers and firefighters has paid off the mortgage of Luis “Mario” Herrera, a
Lincoln, Nebraska police officer shot and killed in the line of duty.

Herrera has ties to northwest Missouri. He grew up in Faucett
and graduated from Mid-Buchanan High School. He graduated from the University of
Missouri in 1993.

Tunnel to Towers Foundation announced it has paid off the
mortgage of the family home as part of its 2020 Season of Hope. Tunnel to
Towers formed after the September 9th, 2001 terrorist attacks on New
York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. It pays off the mortgages of
emergency responders.

Herrera died two weeks after being shot trying to serve an
arrest warrant on a 17-year-old in Lincoln. The suspect, Felipe Vazquez, has
been charged with murder.

Herrera had worked in the Lincoln Police Department for 23
years.

Herrera was the first Lincoln police officer killed in the
line of duty since 1968 and the seventh in the city’s history. He left behind his wife, Carrie, and four
children.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA charity which pays off the mortgages of fallen police
officers and firefighters has paid off the mortgage of Luis “Mario” Herrera, a
Lincoln, Nebraska police officer shot and killed in the line of duty.Herrera has ties to northwest Missouri. He grew up in Faucett
and graduated from Mid-Buchanan High School. He graduated from the University of
Missouri in 1993.Tunnel to Towers Foundation announced it has paid off the
mortgage of the family home as part of its 2020 Season of Hope. Tunnel to
Towers formed after the September 9th, 2001 terrorist attacks on New
York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. It pays off the mortgages of
emergency responders.Herrera died two weeks after being shot trying to serve an
arrest warrant on a 17-year-old in Lincoln. The suspect, Felipe Vazquez, has
been charged with murder.Herrera had worked in the Lincoln Police Department for 23
years.Herrera was the first Lincoln police officer killed in the
line of duty since 1968 and the seventh in the city’s history. He left behind his wife, Carrie, and four
children.

Charity pays off mortgage for family of fallen Lincoln, Nebraska officer

The American Red Cross is seeking more blood donations ahead of the holiday season.

Joe Zydlo with the Red Cross says the need for blood around the holiday season is great.  But in the COVID-19 era, one thing the Red Cross is looking for is even more important.

"We need all blood types, but again also asking people if they have recovered recently and they are healthy to please come out and donate as soon as they can because with all the hospitilizations due to COVID-19, there are a lot of people struggling and suffering right now that need that convalescent plasma to help them recover".

 Zydlo says that there is a need for all blood types, but some give the Red Cross more flexibility.

"We need all blood types now, Type O is important because if you're O negative your a universal donor, that means your blood can be transfused to anybody of any blood type, if you are O positive that's anybody with a positive blood designation can have your O positive blood transfused to them"

The Red Cross is also currently seeking blood donations from people who have recovered from COVID-19. Zydlo says the plasma in those individuals’ blood is used to help others who are currently suffering from the virus.

The Red Cross is currently seeking more blood donations from those who have recovered that are AB or B blood types. 

Zydlo goes on to say that he wants to assure donors the process is safe.

"We have followed CDC guidelines and protocols at all of our blood drives and donor centers right from the beginning, really towards the latter stages of March and into April, adding those guidelines".

Zydlo says the blood centers take the temperature of anyone coming to donate. Anyone with a temperature of 99-point-5 will be sent home. Sanitizer is available.

Zydlo adds that it’s important for donors to feel safe.

"You think you feel as if it's a safe haven, your doing something to help us save lives by donating your blood, and again we want people to be rest assured that we're following all safety protocols and have really since day one".

Zydlo encourages anyone interested to download the Red Cross blood donor app for more information.

BY MATT PIKEST JOSEPH POSTThe American Red Cross is seeking more blood donations ahead of the holiday season.Joe Zydlo with the Red Cross says the need for blood around the holiday season is great. But in the COVID-19 era, one thing the Red Cross is looking for is even more important."We need all blood types, but again also asking people if they have recovered recently and they are healthy to please come out and donate as soon as they can because with all the hospitilizations due to COVID-19, there are a lot of people struggling and suffering right now that need that convalescent plasma to help them recover". Zydlo says that there is a need for all blood types, but some give the Red Cross more flexibility."We need all blood types now, Type O is important because if you're O negative your a universal donor, that means your blood can be transfused to anybody of any blood type, if you are O positive that's anybody with a positive blood designation can have your O positive blood transfused to them"The Red Cross is also currently seeking blood donations from people who have recovered from COVID-19. Zydlo says the plasma in those individuals’ blood is used to help others who are currently suffering from the virus.The Red Cross is currently seeking more blood donations from those who have recovered that are AB or B blood types. Zydlo goes on to say that he wants to assure donors the process is safe."We have followed CDC guidelines and protocols at all of our blood drives and donor centers right from the beginning, really towards the latter stages of March and into April, adding those guidelines".Zydlo says the blood centers take the temperature of anyone coming to donate. Anyone with a temperature of 99-point-5 will be sent home. Sanitizer is available.Zydlo adds that it’s important for donors to feel safe."You think you feel as if it's a safe haven, your doing something to help us save lives by donating your blood, and again we want people to be rest assured that we're following all safety protocols and have really since day one".Zydlo encourages anyone interested to download the Red Cross blood donor app for more information.

American Red Cross seeking more blood donations ahead of holiday season

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Sunday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Dodge 1500 driven by Lloyd W. Walker, 54, Cameron, was eastbound on U.S. 36 two miles east of Hamilton.

The pickup traveled off the road, down an embankment and struck a tree.

Caldwell County EMS transported Walker to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Sunday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Dodge 1500 driven by Lloyd W. Walker, 54, Cameron, was eastbound on U.S. 36 two miles east of Hamilton.The pickup traveled off the road, down an embankment and struck a tree.Caldwell County EMS transported Walker to Cameron Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Cameron man hospitalized after pickup strikes tree

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Saturday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Chevy Trailblazer driven by James E. Dorssom, 57, Polo, was southbound on Interstate 35 just north of Route 116.&nbsp;

The driver lost control of the vehicle. It traveled into the median and overturned. A private vehicle transported Dorssom to Liberty Hospital. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Saturday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Chevy Trailblazer driven by James E. Dorssom, 57, Polo, was southbound on Interstate 35 just north of Route 116.&nbsp;The driver lost control of the vehicle. It traveled into the median and overturned. A private vehicle transported Dorssom to Liberty Hospital. He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after SUV overturns

Mosaic Life Care is making preparations to distribute COVID-19
vaccinations to frontline health workers when the FDA gives final approval and
the state begins distribution.

Mosaic Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner, says distribution
of the Pfizer vaccine could begin this weekend. He says Missouri has designated
10 hubs to distribute the vaccine. 

“We are not one of those particular sites,” Turner tells
reporters during a news conference in St. Joseph. “However, we will get vaccine
very rapidly just as they do. These 10 sites are where they’re going to hold
vaccine mostly to distribute out.”

An independent committee of the United States Food and Drug
Administration has recommended the FDA grant emergency authorization of the
COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer and its German partner, BioNTech. The FDA
is expected to follow its recommendation. Approval could come soon. A vaccine
by Moderna is expected to come before the panel next week.

Turner says the state has designated 10 hubs to distribute its
share of the Pfizer vaccine. Turner expects to see the first supply soon.

“Depending on when that arrives and this is very fluid, we
will start vaccinations quite rapidly,” Turner says. “If we receive this
vaccine by say the 21st or the 22nd of this month, we
will start vaccinating before Christmas.”

Turner says front-line health care workers will be the first
in line for the vaccine. He says the general public likely will not be able to
get vaccinated until later in the summer.

Turner says Mosaic will not mandate that caregivers be
vaccinated.

“This technology is not new. It has been around for a couple
of decades,” Turner says. “However, it is new in this particular setting. So,
we understand why there is some fear out there. However, right now, the
majority of all of our caregivers and providers are saying they plan to take
the vaccine.”

Turner says all Mosaic executives will be vaccinated.

“We believe in the technology and we believe the technology is
safe and we will receive the vaccine.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607715413905.jpeg" alt="Dr. Davin Turner speaks with reporters during a news conference at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Davin Turner speaks with reporters during a news conference at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care is making preparations to distribute COVID-19
vaccinations to frontline health workers when the FDA gives final approval and
the state begins distribution.Mosaic Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner, says distribution
of the Pfizer vaccine could begin this weekend. He says Missouri has designated
10 hubs to distribute the vaccine. “We are not one of those particular sites,” Turner tells
reporters during a news conference in St. Joseph. “However, we will get vaccine
very rapidly just as they do. These 10 sites are where they’re going to hold
vaccine mostly to distribute out.”An independent committee of the United States Food and Drug
Administration has recommended the FDA grant emergency authorization of the
COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer and its German partner, BioNTech. The FDA
is expected to follow its recommendation. Approval could come soon. A vaccine
by Moderna is expected to come before the panel next week.Turner says the state has designated 10 hubs to distribute its
share of the Pfizer vaccine. Turner expects to see the first supply soon.“Depending on when that arrives and this is very fluid, we
will start vaccinations quite rapidly,” Turner says. “If we receive this
vaccine by say the 21st or the 22nd of this month, we
will start vaccinating before Christmas.”Turner says front-line health care workers will be the first
in line for the vaccine. He says the general public likely will not be able to
get vaccinated until later in the summer.Turner says Mosaic will not mandate that caregivers be
vaccinated.“This technology is not new. It has been around for a couple
of decades,” Turner says. “However, it is new in this particular setting. So,
we understand why there is some fear out there. However, right now, the
majority of all of our caregivers and providers are saying they plan to take
the vaccine.”Turner says all Mosaic executives will be vaccinated.“We believe in the technology and we believe the technology is
safe and we will receive the vaccine.”

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