DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Monday in Daviess County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Ford Transit Van driven by Kyle B. Carnes, 23, Shawnee, Kan. was southbound on Interstate 35 three miles north of Cameron.

The van rear-ended the towed unit of a 2020 International Dump Truck driven by Jerry G. Cook, 61, Hamilton.

A private vehicle transported Cook to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Carnes was not injured.

DAVIESS COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Monday in Daviess County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Ford Transit Van driven by Kyle B. Carnes, 23, Shawnee, Kan. was southbound on Interstate 35 three miles north of Cameron.The van rear-ended the towed unit of a 2020 International Dump Truck driven by Jerry G. Cook, 61, Hamilton.A private vehicle transported Cook to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Carnes was not injured.

Missouri man injured after van rear-ends dump truck

St.
Joseph health officials report 140 new cases of COVID-19 and one virus-related
death in Buchanan County since Friday.

The
death was a woman in her 90s, putting the county’s virus death toll at 207. The
county’s positivity rate has dropped a bit. It's now at 12.8% - a 1.2% decrease from the week prior.

Mosaic
Life Care is treating 47 COVID-19 patients as of Monday; 42 in St. Joseph, three
in Maryville, and one in Albany. Slightly more than 21% of Buchanan County
residents are fully vaccinated. 

Andrew
County, meanwhile, reports 134 active cases. Nearly 28% of Andrew County
residents are fully vaccinated.

Kansas health officials report 1,224 total COVID-19 cases in Doniphan County since the pandemic began.

By TOMMY REZAC and BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt.
Joseph health officials report 140 new cases of COVID-19 and one virus-related
death in Buchanan County since Friday.The
death was a woman in her 90s, putting the county’s virus death toll at 207. The
county’s positivity rate has dropped a bit. It's now at 12.8% - a 1.2% decrease from the week prior.Mosaic
Life Care is treating 47 COVID-19 patients as of Monday; 42 in St. Joseph, three
in Maryville, and one in Albany. Slightly more than 21% of Buchanan County
residents are fully vaccinated. Andrew
County, meanwhile, reports 134 active cases. Nearly 28% of Andrew County
residents are fully vaccinated.Kansas health officials report 1,224 total COVID-19 cases in Doniphan County since the pandemic began.

St. Joseph reports 140 new COVID cases, positivity rate drops

A St. Joseph house was shot up last night, but no one inside was
wounded.

St. Joseph police report witnesses tell officers between three
and four shots were fired into an occupied house in the 2200 block of Duncan
Street shortly after nine o’clock last night. The shots might have been fired
from a vehicle.

No suspect has been arrested. The investigation continues.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA St. Joseph house was shot up last night, but no one inside was
wounded.St. Joseph police report witnesses tell officers between three
and four shots were fired into an occupied house in the 2200 block of Duncan
Street shortly after nine o’clock last night. The shots might have been fired
from a vehicle.No suspect has been arrested. The investigation continues.

Shots fired into St. Joseph house; no one hurt

Monday was the first day of school for over 11,000 students across the St. Joseph school district.

School is officially in session for the 2021-22 school year - a second year operating under COVID-19 protocols.

Even so, district superintendent Doug Van Zyl expressed optimism on the first day of a new year.

"There's excitement for staff, our students and our faculty to get the year kicked back off," Van Zyl said. "But, I'm sure there's still some apprehension, because it's a little bit different again this year with masks and other things taking place. But, it's not new. So, hopefully people understand that and we'll continue to have a great year, and day one kind of sets the tone for that."

The St. Joseph school board voted 5-1 earlier this month in favor of reinstating an indoor mask mandate for St. Joseph school staff, students and visitors.

Van Zyl says this policy will be reviewed on a monthly basis at least.

"So, we'll continue to monitor the information and what takes place in our community," he said. "St. Joseph is not the same as other communities, and the vaccination rates are different, so we'll have to take all of that into account."

In an online survey, over 50 percent of St. Joseph school district parents, students and staff were in favor of reinstating masks as the delta variant spreads rapidly across the state and region.

Van Zyl says that data was looked at carefully by the board as they decided what to do for this school year. He also says the mask mandate, while unpopular for many, gives the district its best chance of maintaining in-person learning throughout the entire academic year.

"I think that's what the board tried to take a look at when they made the decision in regard to masks," Van Zyl said. "It's really about the quarantining. It's not necessarily about the masks and the vaccinations themselves, but knowing that those are barriers and layers that can help us keep kids in school so that we can educate them."

Besides keeping schools open all year long, Van Zyl says his second primary goal continues to be community engagement and finding ways to meet the need of the district's families.

"I think there will be conversations about how we continue to engage the community about, 'What do you really want from your school district?'" Van Zyl said. "How do you want us to be able to move forward? What do you want for your kids, the community as a whole? I think those are a couple of big ticket items that are going to be a focus for us this year."

One way the district is trying to make life easier for families in the district is the use of a new mobile app called Stopfinder - a new way for students and their families <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/b0b05846-536b-45e7-8506-66fe5fa72fde">to track their school bus</a> and know when to expect delays.

"That way families have the opportunity to see where the bus is at and give them a better idea," said Van Zyl, "so they're not standing outside for 10, 15 or 20 minutes. They can get there on time and hopefully know when their kids are going to be picked up and dropped off."

The school district is undergoing some other changes. SJSD is preparing to move its main office from 925 Felix Street to the former Noyes Elementary building.

In addition, Benton, Lafayette and Central High School, along with Hilllyard Technical School, now have partial air conditioning for the first time.

The high school's gyms and auditoriums all have air conditioning - part of an $11.37 million project funded by COVID relief dollars. Other parts of the project include improving plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems in the school buildings district-wide.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629748960438.jpeg" alt="Parents escort children to Lindbergh Elementary School in St. Joseph Monday as another school year starts. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Parents escort children to Lindbergh Elementary School in St. Joseph Monday as another school year starts. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMonday was the first day of school for over 11,000 students across the St. Joseph school district. School is officially in session for the 2021-22 school year - a second year operating under COVID-19 protocols.Even so, district superintendent Doug Van Zyl expressed optimism on the first day of a new year."There's excitement for staff, our students and our faculty to get the year kicked back off," Van Zyl said. "But, I'm sure there's still some apprehension, because it's a little bit different again this year with masks and other things taking place. But, it's not new. So, hopefully people understand that and we'll continue to have a great year, and day one kind of sets the tone for that."The St. Joseph school board voted 5-1 earlier this month in favor of reinstating an indoor mask mandate for St. Joseph school staff, students and visitors.Van Zyl says this policy will be reviewed on a monthly basis at least."So, we'll continue to monitor the information and what takes place in our community," he said. "St. Joseph is not the same as other communities, and the vaccination rates are different, so we'll have to take all of that into account."In an online survey, over 50 percent of St. Joseph school district parents, students and staff were in favor of reinstating masks as the delta variant spreads rapidly across the state and region.Van Zyl says that data was looked at carefully by the board as they decided what to do for this school year. He also says the mask mandate, while unpopular for many, gives the district its best chance of maintaining in-person learning throughout the entire academic year."I think that's what the board tried to take a look at when they made the decision in regard to masks," Van Zyl said. "It's really about the quarantining. It's not necessarily about the masks and the vaccinations themselves, but knowing that those are barriers and layers that can help us keep kids in school so that we can educate them."Besides keeping schools open all year long, Van Zyl says his second primary goal continues to be community engagement and finding ways to meet the need of the district's families."I think there will be conversations about how we continue to engage the community about, 'What do you really want from your school district?'" Van Zyl said. "How do you want us to be able to move forward? What do you want for your kids, the community as a whole? I think those are a couple of big ticket items that are going to be a focus for us this year."One way the district is trying to make life easier for families in the district is the use of a new mobile app called Stopfinder - a new way for students and their families <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/b0b05846-536b-45e7-8506-66fe5fa72fde">to track their school bus</a> and know when to expect delays."That way families have the opportunity to see where the bus is at and give them a better idea," said Van Zyl, "so they're not standing outside for 10, 15 or 20 minutes. They can get there on time and hopefully know when their kids are going to be picked up and dropped off."The school district is undergoing some other changes. SJSD is preparing to move its main office from 925 Felix Street to the former Noyes Elementary building.In addition, Benton, Lafayette and Central High School, along with Hilllyard Technical School, now have partial air conditioning for the first time.The high school's gyms and auditoriums all have air conditioning - part of an $11.37 million project funded by COVID relief dollars. Other parts of the project include improving plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems in the school buildings district-wide.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629748903924.jpeg" alt="Students come off the bus in front of Linbergh Elementary in St. Joseph on Monday morning. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Students come off the bus in front of Linbergh Elementary in St. Joseph on Monday morning. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629749044244.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph School District prepared for another school year with COVID protocols

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson says he has no intention of calling
legislators back in a special session to deal with Medicaid expansion.

Lawmakers during the regular legislative session refused to
fund Medicaid expansion, approved by the voters last year. A unanimous Missouri
Supreme Court ruling ordered them to fund it.

Parson says he will not call a special session on Medicaid
expansion, but expects it to be a top priority when they regather for the
regular session in January.

“I think they do need to have a say in how we move forward,”
Parson tells reporters during a stop in St. Joseph. “We have a court order
saying we have to implement this and that’s what we’re going to do. We’re going
to follow that order. As long as we can utilize that federal money, is the big
thing. We just don’t want to get into General Revenue and all of the sudden take
all the General Revenue we have, whether that’s infrastructure, whether that’s
education, whether that’s tourism, you just name it, we just don’t want to use
up all that money.”

Parson doesn’t anticipate having to withhold any money to fund
Medicaid expansion over the next few months.

“So, we want to be able to have it in place where we can draw
down the federal dollars,” Parson says. “But I believe we can get by, if all
goes well, I think we can get by until January and then the legislators need to
come in and decide what they’re going to do.”

Parson has estimated the state’s portion of expansion would be
$156 million in the current fiscal year. It is estimated it will cost $1.57 billion
to cover the additional 127,000 Missourians under expansion, the vast majority
coming through federal funds.

Though Parson budgeted for the state’s share of Medicaid
expansion, state legislators rejected his suggestions and refused to fund it.
The primary complaint voiced by lawmakers was that the ballot issue that passed
last year failed to establish a revenue source for the state’s portion of the
cost. Lawmakers claimed it was unconstitutional, because of that. The Missouri
Supreme Court disagreed.

Parson wants the legislature to funding Medicaid expansion a
top priority in the next regular session. He doesn’t expect to have to withhold
money to pay for it while he waits for the legislature to act.

“I don’t think we’re at that point,” Parson says. “Thank
goodness with everything that’s gone over the last 18-19 months, financially,
this state is in very good shape. And I’ll give that credit to the people across
this state. Again, we stayed focused on keeping our business open, we kept
focused on trying to build our workforce up and our infrastructure, which is
paying us dividends right now that we’ve been able to go through this firestorm
we’ve been through these 18, 19 months. So, I’m thankful for that. A lot of
good things are happening in this state, too.”

The Missouri General Assembly convenes for its regular session
at the beginning of January.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629737369940.jpeg" alt="Missouri Capitol/Missouri House of Representatives photo" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Capitol/Missouri House of Representatives photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri Gov. Mike Parson says he has no intention of calling
legislators back in a special session to deal with Medicaid expansion.Lawmakers during the regular legislative session refused to
fund Medicaid expansion, approved by the voters last year. A unanimous Missouri
Supreme Court ruling ordered them to fund it.Parson says he will not call a special session on Medicaid
expansion, but expects it to be a top priority when they regather for the
regular session in January.“I think they do need to have a say in how we move forward,”
Parson tells reporters during a stop in St. Joseph. “We have a court order
saying we have to implement this and that’s what we’re going to do. We’re going
to follow that order. As long as we can utilize that federal money, is the big
thing. We just don’t want to get into General Revenue and all of the sudden take
all the General Revenue we have, whether that’s infrastructure, whether that’s
education, whether that’s tourism, you just name it, we just don’t want to use
up all that money.”Parson doesn’t anticipate having to withhold any money to fund
Medicaid expansion over the next few months.“So, we want to be able to have it in place where we can draw
down the federal dollars,” Parson says. “But I believe we can get by, if all
goes well, I think we can get by until January and then the legislators need to
come in and decide what they’re going to do.”Parson has estimated the state’s portion of expansion would be
$156 million in the current fiscal year. It is estimated it will cost $1.57 billion
to cover the additional 127,000 Missourians under expansion, the vast majority
coming through federal funds.Though Parson budgeted for the state’s share of Medicaid
expansion, state legislators rejected his suggestions and refused to fund it.
The primary complaint voiced by lawmakers was that the ballot issue that passed
last year failed to establish a revenue source for the state’s portion of the
cost. Lawmakers claimed it was unconstitutional, because of that. The Missouri
Supreme Court disagreed.Parson wants the legislature to funding Medicaid expansion a
top priority in the next regular session. He doesn’t expect to have to withhold
money to pay for it while he waits for the legislature to act.“I don’t think we’re at that point,” Parson says. “Thank
goodness with everything that’s gone over the last 18-19 months, financially,
this state is in very good shape. And I’ll give that credit to the people across
this state. Again, we stayed focused on keeping our business open, we kept
focused on trying to build our workforce up and our infrastructure, which is
paying us dividends right now that we’ve been able to go through this firestorm
we’ve been through these 18, 19 months. So, I’m thankful for that. A lot of
good things are happening in this state, too.”The Missouri General Assembly convenes for its regular session
at the beginning of January.

Gov. Parson doesn't see need for special session on Medicaid expansion

A 59-year-old woman is expected to
recover from a gunshot wound suffered when shots were fired into four homes in
the 6500 block of Brown Street late Friday night.

St. Joseph police say the woman was
the only one wounded in the shooting that took place after 11 o’clock Friday
night. A shot fired into the house hit her foot while she sat on her couch. She
was taken to the Mosaic Life Care hospital in St. Joseph with what police describe
as non-life-threatening injuries.

Officers say several rounds were
fired into four homes from a vehicle. The incident occurred during a downpour
Friday night.

No one has been arrested in the
incident. The investigation continues.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 59-year-old woman is expected to
recover from a gunshot wound suffered when shots were fired into four homes in
the 6500 block of Brown Street late Friday night.St. Joseph police say the woman was
the only one wounded in the shooting that took place after 11 o’clock Friday
night. A shot fired into the house hit her foot while she sat on her couch. She
was taken to the Mosaic Life Care hospital in St. Joseph with what police describe
as non-life-threatening injuries.Officers say several rounds were
fired into four homes from a vehicle. The incident occurred during a downpour
Friday night.No one has been arrested in the
incident. The investigation continues.

59-year-old St. Joseph woman wounded in drive-by shooting

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a weekend arrest.

Just before 7:30p.m. Saturday, police in the 400 Block of South 10th Street in Atchison arrested 27-year-old&nbsp;Jason C. Price, Jr, of Atchison,&nbsp; on District Court warrants for failure to appear in court.

He is also being held on requested charges of interference with law enforcement.

Price has two previous convictions for burglary, three for theft, for criminal damage to property and flee or attempt to elude law enforcement, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629722639284.png" alt="Price-photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Price-photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a weekend arrest.Just before 7:30p.m. Saturday, police in the 400 Block of South 10th Street in Atchison arrested 27-year-old&nbsp;Jason C. Price, Jr, of Atchison,&nbsp; on District Court warrants for failure to appear in court. He is also being held on requested charges of interference with law enforcement.Price has two previous convictions for burglary, three for theft, for criminal damage to property and flee or attempt to elude law enforcement, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Police: Kansas felon jailed after weekend arrest

ATCHISON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Saturday in Atchison County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Dodge Ram driven by Vernie E. Fox, 74, Valley Falls, was southbound on Bourbon Road three miles South of Muscotah.

The front driver's side tire failed. The driver&nbsp; lost control of the pickup. It left the roadway to the east and entered the ditch.

EMS transported Fox and a passenger Evalena A. Fox, 74, Valley Falls, to a Topeka&nbsp; hospital. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

ATCHISON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Saturday in Atchison County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Dodge Ram driven by Vernie E. Fox, 74, Valley Falls, was southbound on Bourbon Road three miles South of Muscotah.The front driver's side tire failed. The driver&nbsp; lost control of the pickup. It left the roadway to the east and entered the ditch.EMS transported Fox and a passenger Evalena A. Fox, 74, Valley Falls, to a Topeka&nbsp; hospital. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

Kansas couple hospitalized after pickup tire fails

NODAWAY COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 12:30p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1990 Ford F150 driven by Treyton J. Harris, 20, Maryville, was northbound on Jett Road three miles north of Barnard.

The pickup crested a hill, crossed the center of the road, partially traveled off the road and struck a 2019 Massey Furguson 4710 driven by&nbsp; Joseph B. Drake 69, Barnard, head-on.

Nodaway County EMS transported a passenger in the pickup Caysie D. Creason, 20, Hale, to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph.

Drake and Harris were not injured. Harris and Creason were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 12:30p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1990 Ford F150 driven by Treyton J. Harris, 20, Maryville, was northbound on Jett Road three miles north of Barnard.The pickup crested a hill, crossed the center of the road, partially traveled off the road and struck a 2019 Massey Furguson 4710 driven by&nbsp; Joseph B. Drake 69, Barnard, head-on.Nodaway County EMS transported a passenger in the pickup Caysie D. Creason, 20, Hale, to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph.Drake and Harris were not injured. Harris and Creason were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

Mo. woman injured after head-on crash with farm tractor

NODAWAY COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Toyota Yaris driven by Stephanis Jorandby Molitor, 35, Conception Junction, was westbound on Route U two miles east of Arkoe.

The driver overcorrected and the vehicle began to slide. It crossed the center line, traveled off the road, struck an embankment and overturned.

Nodaway County EMS transported Molitor to Mosaic in Maryville. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Toyota Yaris driven by Stephanis Jorandby Molitor, 35, Conception Junction, was westbound on Route U two miles east of Arkoe.The driver overcorrected and the vehicle began to slide. It crossed the center line, traveled off the road, struck an embankment and overturned.Nodaway County EMS transported Molitor to Mosaic in Maryville. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman injured after car overturns

CLINTON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Saturday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Buick Encore driven by Ellen L. Barnett, 86, Lawson, was westbound on PP Highway just east of Wright Way Lane.

The Buick crossed the center line and struck an eastbound 2007 Jeep Liberty driven by Megan A. Scarlett, 33, Kansas City, Missouri. The impact caused the jeep to spin into a westbound 2019 Dodge Ram driven by Bryce U . Sapp, 43, Lawson.

Lawson EMS transported Sapp and Scarlett to Liberty Hospital. Barnett was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Saturday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Buick Encore driven by Ellen L. Barnett, 86, Lawson, was westbound on PP Highway just east of Wright Way Lane.The Buick crossed the center line and struck an eastbound 2007 Jeep Liberty driven by Megan A. Scarlett, 33, Kansas City, Missouri. The impact caused the jeep to spin into a westbound 2019 Dodge Ram driven by Bryce U . Sapp, 43, Lawson.Lawson EMS transported Sapp and Scarlett to Liberty Hospital. Barnett was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

2 hospitalized after 3-vehicle crash

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

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Colorado driven by Leonard L. Jordan, 52, Kansas City, Mo., was southbound on Interstate 35 one mile north of Holt.

The pickup rear-ended a 2010 Nissan Rogue driven by Luz V. Buendia-Rodriguez, 40, Kansas City, Mo. 

Jordan was treated and released from Cameron Regional Medical Center. Buendia-Rodriguez 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 before 9p.m. Friday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Chevy Colorado driven by Leonard L. Jordan, 52, Kansas City, Mo., was southbound on Interstate 35 one mile north of Holt.The pickup rear-ended a 2010 Nissan Rogue driven by Luz V. Buendia-Rodriguez, 40, Kansas City, Mo. Jordan was treated and released from Cameron Regional Medical Center. Buendia-Rodriguez was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man injured after rear-end crash

The St. Joseph School District's academic year begins Monday, and those families who rely on buses to get children to and from school now have a new, convenient way to track their bus and know when to expect delays.

The app is called Stopfinder. Apple Bus Company general manager Mark Alexander says this app provides families real-time alerts on where their bus is and when they might expect it to arrive.

"They're going to be able to see their bus in real-time for their students, wherever their students are at," said Alexander. "The beauty of it is, they can get geo-alerts. They can get a geo-alert when that bus leaves the school, and they can also put a geo-alert around where their bus stop is, so that they know, 'Okay. Hey, the bus is going to be here in a few minutes. I need to get out there.'"

The Apple Bus Company has a fleet of about 95 buses that travel 66 main stream routes. The Stopfinder app is able to track the buses through their GPS systems.

Over 3,200 kids in the St. Joseph school district rely on buses. Robert Sigrist, the district director of non-academic services, says this app will hopefully save families some time in their morning routine.

"It'll also save them maybe a little bit of that anxiety of not knowing, 'Why hasn't the bus shown up?'" Sigrist said. "Or, on the flip side, if the weather is not great, they can stay inside a few more minutes if they know the bus isn't there yet. So, I see a whole lot of benefits for families and being able to know when and where to expect their bus."

Sigrist says getting this app ready was about a two-year process that, like many things, got delayed due to COVID-19. As this app gets rolled out and as more and more families download it, Sigrist asks for patience in the first week or so.

"Have a little grace and a little patience the first few days," he stressed. "If that bus isn't there right exactly at the time we planned it to be, just know that as we work through the kinks in the first few days and everything, we'll get there and it'll be a good, safe situation to get your kids to and from school."

Students who ride buses this year will again be required to wear a mask while on the bus, in accordance with federal travel mandates.

Alexander says their bus drivers' main objective is to get kids to and from school safely, but they'll also have masks available for any kids who don't have one.

"We encourage the parents to give kids the masks," he said. "If they don't have one, we will offer them one. But, again, we have to make sure the kids get there safely. That's our main goal."

As over 11,600 students make their way back to school across the district, whether they arrive by bus, are dropped off by a parent, or if they're driving themselves, Sigrist urges a little patience on that first day.

"Take your time," he said. "Just know there's going to be more traffic. Probably one of the big things I always try and remind people of is that, along with the additional car and bus traffic that hasn't been going on for awhile, we'll have a lot of new drivers around the high schools."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629480165669.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph School District's academic year begins Monday, and those families who rely on buses to get children to and from school now have a new, convenient way to track their bus and know when to expect delays.The app is called Stopfinder. Apple Bus Company general manager Mark Alexander says this app provides families real-time alerts on where their bus is and when they might expect it to arrive."They're going to be able to see their bus in real-time for their students, wherever their students are at," said Alexander. "The beauty of it is, they can get geo-alerts. They can get a geo-alert when that bus leaves the school, and they can also put a geo-alert around where their bus stop is, so that they know, 'Okay. Hey, the bus is going to be here in a few minutes. I need to get out there.'"The Apple Bus Company has a fleet of about 95 buses that travel 66 main stream routes. The Stopfinder app is able to track the buses through their GPS systems.Over 3,200 kids in the St. Joseph school district rely on buses. Robert Sigrist, the district director of non-academic services, says this app will hopefully save families some time in their morning routine."It'll also save them maybe a little bit of that anxiety of not knowing, 'Why hasn't the bus shown up?'" Sigrist said. "Or, on the flip side, if the weather is not great, they can stay inside a few more minutes if they know the bus isn't there yet. So, I see a whole lot of benefits for families and being able to know when and where to expect their bus."Sigrist says getting this app ready was about a two-year process that, like many things, got delayed due to COVID-19. As this app gets rolled out and as more and more families download it, Sigrist asks for patience in the first week or so."Have a little grace and a little patience the first few days," he stressed. "If that bus isn't there right exactly at the time we planned it to be, just know that as we work through the kinks in the first few days and everything, we'll get there and it'll be a good, safe situation to get your kids to and from school."Students who ride buses this year will again be required to wear a mask while on the bus, in accordance with federal travel mandates.Alexander says their bus drivers' main objective is to get kids to and from school safely, but they'll also have masks available for any kids who don't have one."We encourage the parents to give kids the masks," he said. "If they don't have one, we will offer them one. But, again, we have to make sure the kids get there safely. That's our main goal."As over 11,600 students make their way back to school across the district, whether they arrive by bus, are dropped off by a parent, or if they're driving themselves, Sigrist urges a little patience on that first day."Take your time," he said. "Just know there's going to be more traffic. Probably one of the big things I always try and remind people of is that, along with the additional car and bus traffic that hasn't been going on for awhile, we'll have a lot of new drivers around the high schools."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629480333978.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629480352789.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph School District launches new bus tracking app with Apple Bus Company

What state highway safety officials call the 100 deadliest days of summer are nearing an end, and traffic fatality numbers have improved from last year.

Assistant State Highway Safety and Traffic Engineer John Nelson says so far this year, numbers are pacing the same as 2020, but the numbers have looked better over the summer.

"When we're talking specifially about the hundred deadliest days, which is what we refer to really the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day," Nelson says. "We actually have seen some progress this year." 

July numbers were down from July of last year.

"August has been about on par with last year," Nelson adds. "But we would really like to see us finish that part of summer strong, and give us some momentum heading into the fall."

Nelson says, historically, numbers are up when more people are on the highways, and down when there are fewer drivers, but last year during the pandemic, the numbers were higher than expected.

"But we saw the exact opposite," Nelson tells St. Joseph Post. "The fewer cars we had on the road during the pandemic, and really into this year, the more our fatalities increased and I do think there was some sense of, nobody else is out on the road, I've got all this room, I can drive faster."

Even with the number of traffic fatalities improving over this year, one number still remains high, the number of impaired drivers on the road.&nbsp; 

Nelson says that as drivers get ready to head into labor day, they should stay aware of how dangerous drunk or drugged driving can be.

"People are still losing their life on our roadways because of impaired driving, you would think here in 2021, it's very well known that is a deadly and dangerous thing to do, it's inconsiderate, it's selfish, however you want to label it," Nelson says. "But every year we're still losing about 200 people in Missouri, as a result of driving intoxicated or driving under the influence."

To attempt to curb the number of impaired drivers on the roadways, Missouri law enforcement will participate in the 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' campaign, beginning August 20th until Labor Day, the one objective of this campaign being to decrease the number of impaired drivers on the road.

BY MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostWhat state highway safety officials call the 100 deadliest days of summer are nearing an end, and traffic fatality numbers have improved from last year.Assistant State Highway Safety and Traffic Engineer John Nelson says so far this year, numbers are pacing the same as 2020, but the numbers have looked better over the summer."When we're talking specifially about the hundred deadliest days, which is what we refer to really the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day," Nelson says. "We actually have seen some progress this year." July numbers were down from July of last year."August has been about on par with last year," Nelson adds. "But we would really like to see us finish that part of summer strong, and give us some momentum heading into the fall."Nelson says, historically, numbers are up when more people are on the highways, and down when there are fewer drivers, but last year during the pandemic, the numbers were higher than expected."But we saw the exact opposite," Nelson tells St. Joseph Post. "The fewer cars we had on the road during the pandemic, and really into this year, the more our fatalities increased and I do think there was some sense of, nobody else is out on the road, I've got all this room, I can drive faster."Even with the number of traffic fatalities improving over this year, one number still remains high, the number of impaired drivers on the road.&nbsp; Nelson says that as drivers get ready to head into labor day, they should stay aware of how dangerous drunk or drugged driving can be."People are still losing their life on our roadways because of impaired driving, you would think here in 2021, it's very well known that is a deadly and dangerous thing to do, it's inconsiderate, it's selfish, however you want to label it," Nelson says. "But every year we're still losing about 200 people in Missouri, as a result of driving intoxicated or driving under the influence."To attempt to curb the number of impaired drivers on the roadways, Missouri law enforcement will participate in the 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' campaign, beginning August 20th until Labor Day, the one objective of this campaign being to decrease the number of impaired drivers on the road.

Missouri warns: "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" as 100 deadliest days comes to end

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Olympic gold medalist and former Kansas resident Michael Andrew.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas Olympian Michael Andrew" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=fsmwj-10bc61e-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Olympic gold medalist and former Kansas resident Michael Andrew.

🎤Forward Ever: Olympic gold medalist Michael Andrew

ATCHISON COUNTY—A Kansas man avoided serious injury in an accident just before 3p.m. Thursday in Atchison County.

A 2005 Pontiac Grand AM driven by Frank Busenbarrick, 57, Atchison was southbound on the U.S.73/U.S.59 connecting link, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.

After stopping at the stop sign, the Pontiac proceeded to cross U.S.59.&nbsp; An eastbound 2007 Peterbilt semi driven by Michael Bell, Keokuk, Iowa, struck the Pontiac.

Atchison County EMS treated Busenbarrick at the scene. He was cited for failure to yield, expired tag, and no proof of insurance, according to Wilson. Bell was not injured.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629467904443.png" alt="Thursday crash scene photo Atchison Police" />
 <figcaption>Thursday crash scene photo Atchison Police</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—A Kansas man avoided serious injury in an accident just before 3p.m. Thursday in Atchison County.A 2005 Pontiac Grand AM driven by Frank Busenbarrick, 57, Atchison was southbound on the U.S.73/U.S.59 connecting link, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.After stopping at the stop sign, the Pontiac proceeded to cross U.S.59.&nbsp; An eastbound 2007 Peterbilt semi driven by Michael Bell, Keokuk, Iowa, struck the Pontiac.Atchison County EMS treated Busenbarrick at the scene. He was cited for failure to yield, expired tag, and no proof of insurance, according to Wilson. Bell was not injured.&nbsp;

Atchison man avoids serious injury after crash with semi

Mosaic Life Care executives urge local residents to get
vaccinated against COVID-19.

Mosaic has announced it will require all caregivers to be
vaccinated, stating the move will protect patients at its St. Joseph,
Maryville, and Albany hospitals.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Davin Turner says there simply is no
dispute that the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have proven effective against the coronavirus.

“What they have found with both is, still today, 98% of all
people dying from COVID were not vaccinated; 98%,” Turner tells reporters at a
news conference.

Turner says the Johnson and Johnson single-shot vaccine has
also proven effective.

Earlier this week, Mosaic reported treating 43 patients in its
system with four in ICU, three of whom are on ventilators. Twelve of the 43 had
received their vaccinations. Turner says those patients had other challenges
which weakened their immune system and prevented the vaccine from proving
effective. Those suffering other ailments, especially respiratory ailments, and
the elderly are the most susceptible to the coronavirus.

Mosaic has been using the Regeneron monoclonal antibody
infusion to treat COVID patients and it seems to shorten the hospital stay.

Turner says while Mosaic is pleased the hospitalizations since
the resurgence of COIVD-19 have hovered between 30-and-60 patients, the health
care system would worry less if the area positivity rate drops. Fears hospitalizations
might spike ease when the positivity rate decreases.

Mosaic expects to have all doctors and administrators fully
vaccinated by the first of November. All staff should be fully immunized by the
end of the year or early next year.

The leadership team at Mosaic insists much of the resistance
to the vaccines is being fueled by misinformation on social media as well as
politics.

Mosaic CEO, Dr. Mark Laney, says he understands why some are
scared of getting the vaccine.

“You go out on the Internet and you can just get an opinion
about everything that would scare you to death,” according to Laney. “So, I
think there’s been some vaccine hesitancy there.”

Laney says other, troubling, aspects have kept area residents
from getting vaccinated.

“Unfortunately, vaccination has become far more politicized,
the discussion has been far more political in many ways than medical and that
is a component as well.”

Turner says experience has proven the worth of the Pfizer,
Moderna, and Johnson and Johnson shots.

“As you think about the vaccine now, it’s been out since the
very end of last year, you’ve got a lot of good data, over 300 million doses
given, 350 million doses given, in the states,” Turner says. “It’s just a very
effective, safe vaccine.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629404599237.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Life Care CEO, Dr. Mark Laney (L), and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner, answer questions during a news conference./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Life Care CEO, Dr. Mark Laney (L), and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner, answer questions during a news conference./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MATINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care executives urge local residents to get
vaccinated against COVID-19.Mosaic has announced it will require all caregivers to be
vaccinated, stating the move will protect patients at its St. Joseph,
Maryville, and Albany hospitals.Chief Medical Officer Dr. Davin Turner says there simply is no
dispute that the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have proven effective against the coronavirus.“What they have found with both is, still today, 98% of all
people dying from COVID were not vaccinated; 98%,” Turner tells reporters at a
news conference.Turner says the Johnson and Johnson single-shot vaccine has
also proven effective.Earlier this week, Mosaic reported treating 43 patients in its
system with four in ICU, three of whom are on ventilators. Twelve of the 43 had
received their vaccinations. Turner says those patients had other challenges
which weakened their immune system and prevented the vaccine from proving
effective. Those suffering other ailments, especially respiratory ailments, and
the elderly are the most susceptible to the coronavirus.Mosaic has been using the Regeneron monoclonal antibody
infusion to treat COVID patients and it seems to shorten the hospital stay.Turner says while Mosaic is pleased the hospitalizations since
the resurgence of COIVD-19 have hovered between 30-and-60 patients, the health
care system would worry less if the area positivity rate drops. Fears hospitalizations
might spike ease when the positivity rate decreases.Mosaic expects to have all doctors and administrators fully
vaccinated by the first of November. All staff should be fully immunized by the
end of the year or early next year.The leadership team at Mosaic insists much of the resistance
to the vaccines is being fueled by misinformation on social media as well as
politics.Mosaic CEO, Dr. Mark Laney, says he understands why some are
scared of getting the vaccine.“You go out on the Internet and you can just get an opinion
about everything that would scare you to death,” according to Laney. “So, I
think there’s been some vaccine hesitancy there.”Laney says other, troubling, aspects have kept area residents
from getting vaccinated.“Unfortunately, vaccination has become far more politicized,
the discussion has been far more political in many ways than medical and that
is a component as well.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629404707451.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>Turner says experience has proven the worth of the Pfizer,
Moderna, and Johnson and Johnson shots.“As you think about the vaccine now, it’s been out since the
very end of last year, you’ve got a lot of good data, over 300 million doses
given, 350 million doses given, in the states,” Turner says. “It’s just a very
effective, safe vaccine.”

Mosaic says COVID vaccinations have proven their effectiveness

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple charges after a shooting incident and standoff.

Just before 6p.m. Wednesday officers responded to Amberwell Hospital after a 47-year-old male with a non-life threatening gunshot wound had been taken there by private vehicle, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

It was determined that a dispute between the victim and 57-year-old Porter Webb had occurred outside a residence in the 1100 block South 7th Street in Atchison.

 During the dispute Webb produced a handgun and fired one shot into a vehicle occupied by the victim, according to Wilson.

The victim was able to drive away from the scene and sought help from a family member at a residence just blocks away and the family member took the victim to the hospital.

Police officers subsequently focused attention on Porter Webb’s residence at 1122 South 7th Street and obtained a search warrant for the residence. 

Officers determined that Webb was inside the home. After receiving no response from Webb, officers maintained a secure perimeter around the residence as repeated attempts were made to get Webb to come out.

&nbsp;Communication by loud speakers, chemical agents deployed into the residence, and the use of a KHP robot were all utilized in the effort to take Porter into custody with no injuries to him or the officers.

The KHP robot entered the residence and it was determined that Webb was not in the main area of the residence. Officers with the Atchison Police Department’s Special Response Team entered the residence and located Webb hiding in a crawl space below the residence and he was taken into custody without injury to him or any officers.

Webb was transported to the Amberwell Hospital by EMS for examination and subsequently taken to the County Jail. Investigation reports will be submitted to the County Attorney’s Office on Thursday for prosecution.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629379297030.png" alt="Webb photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Webb photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple charges after a shooting incident and standoff.Just before 6p.m. Wednesday officers responded to Amberwell Hospital after a 47-year-old male with a non-life threatening gunshot wound had been taken there by private vehicle, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.It was determined that a dispute between the victim and 57-year-old Porter Webb had occurred outside a residence in the 1100 block South 7th Street in Atchison. During the dispute Webb produced a handgun and fired one shot into a vehicle occupied by the victim, according to Wilson.The victim was able to drive away from the scene and sought help from a family member at a residence just blocks away and the family member took the victim to the hospital.Police officers subsequently focused attention on Porter Webb’s residence at 1122 South 7th Street and obtained a search warrant for the residence. Officers determined that Webb was inside the home. After receiving no response from Webb, officers maintained a secure perimeter around the residence as repeated attempts were made to get Webb to come out.&nbsp;Communication by loud speakers, chemical agents deployed into the residence, and the use of a KHP robot were all utilized in the effort to take Porter into custody with no injuries to him or the officers.The KHP robot entered the residence and it was determined that Webb was not in the main area of the residence. Officers with the Atchison Police Department’s Special Response Team entered the residence and located Webb hiding in a crawl space below the residence and he was taken into custody without injury to him or any officers.Webb was transported to the Amberwell Hospital by EMS for examination and subsequently taken to the County Jail. Investigation reports will be submitted to the County Attorney’s Office on Thursday for prosecution.

KHP robot helps in search for shooting suspect

HOLT COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Thursday in Holt County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Kawasaki driven by Stanley D. Rippey, 70, Mound City, was southbound on U.S. 59 four miles east of Oregon.

The motorcycle traveled off the road and overturned. Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Rippey to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

HOLT COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Thursday in Holt County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Kawasaki driven by Stanley D. Rippey, 70, Mound City, was southbound on U.S. 59 four miles east of Oregon.The motorcycle traveled off the road and overturned. Atchison-Holt ambulance transported Rippey to Mosaic in St. Joseph. He was wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

Mound City man injured in motorcycle accident

A 33-year-old St. Joseph man has pleaded guilty to second degree murder
in a stabbing death in his apartment last year.

Buchanan County Prosecutor Ron Holliday reports Nicholas Piper entered a
plea of guilty to murder in the second degree in the death of a 45-year-old James
Tittsworth at 905 S. 14th Street April 26th of last year.

A St. Joseph police detective reported in the probable cause statement
that Piper entered the apartment armed with two knives and stabbed Tittsworth
in the chest several times. Tittsworth was taken to the Mosaic Life Care St.
Joseph hospital where he was pronounced dead.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588006964968.jpeg" alt="Piper photo Buchanan Co." />
 <figcaption>Piper photo Buchanan Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 33-year-old St. Joseph man has pleaded guilty to second degree murder
in a stabbing death in his apartment last year.Buchanan County Prosecutor Ron Holliday reports Nicholas Piper entered a
plea of guilty to murder in the second degree in the death of a 45-year-old James
Tittsworth at 905 S. 14th Street April 26th of last year.A St. Joseph police detective reported in the probable cause statement
that Piper entered the apartment armed with two knives and stabbed Tittsworth
in the chest several times. Tittsworth was taken to the Mosaic Life Care St.
Joseph hospital where he was pronounced dead.

St. Joseph man pleads guilty in stabbing death last year

A second-degree murder charge has been filed against a
24-year-old St. Joseph man in the shooting death of 37-year-old Santos Jackson.

Buchanan County Prosecutor Ron Holliday filed the charge
against Tucker James Autenrieth.

St. Joseph police found Jackson dead of a single gunshot wound
to the back of the head Wednesday. In the probable cause statement filed in the
case, St. Joseph police say officers responded to a possible homicide call at
705 N. 9th Street. Officers discovered blood and cleaning agents in
the residence and obtained a search warrant.

Officers found the body of Jackson inside. The owner
identified Autenrieth as the person who killed Jackson on Monday.

Autenrieth told officers Jackson arrived at the residence
armed with a .45 pistol and started a fight. When Jackson attempted to enter,
Autenrieth said he struck him on the back of the neck with a machete, knocking
him to the ground. Jackson crawled toward the firearm he had dropped.
Autenrieth told officers he started kicking him in the head and body, then
picked up the gun and fired a single shot to the back of the head. Autenrieth
later wrapped the victim’s body in plastic and attempted to use bleach to clean
up the scene, according to the probable cause statement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629392501215.png" alt="Tucker Autenrieth is no longer in custody-photo Buchanan County" />
 <figcaption>Tucker Autenrieth is no longer in custody-photo Buchanan County</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA second-degree murder charge has been filed against a
24-year-old St. Joseph man in the shooting death of 37-year-old Santos Jackson.Buchanan County Prosecutor Ron Holliday filed the charge
against Tucker James Autenrieth.St. Joseph police found Jackson dead of a single gunshot wound
to the back of the head Wednesday. In the probable cause statement filed in the
case, St. Joseph police say officers responded to a possible homicide call at
705 N. 9th Street. Officers discovered blood and cleaning agents in
the residence and obtained a search warrant.Officers found the body of Jackson inside. The owner
identified Autenrieth as the person who killed Jackson on Monday.Autenrieth told officers Jackson arrived at the residence
armed with a .45 pistol and started a fight. When Jackson attempted to enter,
Autenrieth said he struck him on the back of the neck with a machete, knocking
him to the ground. Jackson crawled toward the firearm he had dropped.
Autenrieth told officers he started kicking him in the head and body, then
picked up the gun and fired a single shot to the back of the head. Autenrieth
later wrapped the victim’s body in plastic and attempted to use bleach to clean
up the scene, according to the probable cause statement.

Second-degree murder charge filed in St. Joseph shooting death

A
motel in Bethany has closed after it was discovered an individual with Legionnaires’
disease stayed there in July.

The
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services says it received notification
that an individual diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease had stayed at the
Quality Inn and Suites in Bethany in mid-July. It isn’t known whether the hotel
was the source of the illness, but tests of the pool, spa, and the potable
water system indicated the presence of Legionella bacteria. A thorough cleaning
of the motel is underway.

State
health officials are working with the Harrison County Health Department to investigate
the origin of the disease and prevent its spread.

The
state health department says most healthy people exposed to Legionella do not
get sick, but the risks increase for older people, those who smoke, and those
with a weakened immune system. Those who develop symptoms, such as a cough,
shortness of breath, and fever, after staying or working at the motel are urged
to seek medical attention.

Additional
information on Legionella is available from the CDC website. Click <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/legionella/index.html">here</a> for more information.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA
motel in Bethany has closed after it was discovered an individual with Legionnaires’
disease stayed there in July.The
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services says it received notification
that an individual diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease had stayed at the
Quality Inn and Suites in Bethany in mid-July. It isn’t known whether the hotel
was the source of the illness, but tests of the pool, spa, and the potable
water system indicated the presence of Legionella bacteria. A thorough cleaning
of the motel is underway.State
health officials are working with the Harrison County Health Department to investigate
the origin of the disease and prevent its spread.The
state health department says most healthy people exposed to Legionella do not
get sick, but the risks increase for older people, those who smoke, and those
with a weakened immune system. Those who develop symptoms, such as a cough,
shortness of breath, and fever, after staying or working at the motel are urged
to seek medical attention.Additional
information on Legionella is available from the CDC website. Click <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/legionella/index.html">here</a> for more information.

Bethany motel closes during investigation of Legionnaires' disease

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen on drug and theft allegations.

Just before 11p.m. Tuesday, officers responded to the Walmart Store at 1920 U.S.73 in Atchison to investigate a theft, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

It was determined that a suspect, later identified as 18-year-old Kaleb Marshall, had stolen $221 in merchandise that included a backpack and clothing. 

The suspect left the area in a vehicle. Authorities issued an alert for that vehicle and a short time later sheriff’s deputies stopped the vehicle at 262nd and Ottawa Road, according to Wilson.

Officers arrested Marshall for the theft at Walmart and subsequently found methamphetamine on his person.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629303527158.png" alt="Marshall photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Marshall photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen on drug and theft allegations.Just before 11p.m. Tuesday, officers responded to the Walmart Store at 1920 U.S.73 in Atchison to investigate a theft, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.It was determined that a suspect, later identified as 18-year-old Kaleb Marshall, had stolen $221 in merchandise that included a backpack and clothing. The suspect left the area in a vehicle. Authorities issued an alert for that vehicle and a short time later sheriff’s deputies stopped the vehicle at 262nd and Ottawa Road, according to Wilson.Officers arrested Marshall for the theft at Walmart and subsequently found methamphetamine on his person.

Police arrest teen who fled from store theft

Mosaic Life Care will require all staff to be vaccinated
against COVID-19.

Mosaic CEO, Dr. Mark Laney, made the announcement late
Wednesday afternoon.

“We are announcing today that we are taking the first steps in
requiring vaccination for all of our caregivers here at Mosaic,” Laney told
reporters during a news conference at the St. Joseph hospital.

The vaccination requirement will be implemented incrementally
with the target of having all staff vaccinated by the end of the year. Mosaic
has a total of 4,500 employees at its St. Joseph, Maryville, and Albany
locations.

Laney says Mosaic has been treating between 40-to-60 COVID-19
patients daily. Thirty caregivers have contracted COVID.

“So, this is continuing to be an extreme challenge for us. We’ve
been very busy and we feel that now is the right time to move forward with
this,” Laney stated. “We have great confidence in the efficacy and the safety
of the vaccine.”

Laney said the vaccination requirement will be rolled out
incrementally.

All volunteers and new hires at Mosaic will have to be
vaccinated against COVID-19, beginning September 13th. Mosaic hopes
of have all doctors and administrators vaccinated by the beginning of November.
The process of vaccinating the entire staff should be completed by the end of
the year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629323793499.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care will require all staff to be vaccinated
against COVID-19.Mosaic CEO, Dr. Mark Laney, made the announcement late
Wednesday afternoon.“We are announcing today that we are taking the first steps in
requiring vaccination for all of our caregivers here at Mosaic,” Laney told
reporters during a news conference at the St. Joseph hospital.The vaccination requirement will be implemented incrementally
with the target of having all staff vaccinated by the end of the year. Mosaic
has a total of 4,500 employees at its St. Joseph, Maryville, and Albany
locations.Laney says Mosaic has been treating between 40-to-60 COVID-19
patients daily. Thirty caregivers have contracted COVID.“So, this is continuing to be an extreme challenge for us. We’ve
been very busy and we feel that now is the right time to move forward with
this,” Laney stated. “We have great confidence in the efficacy and the safety
of the vaccine.”Laney said the vaccination requirement will be rolled out
incrementally.All volunteers and new hires at Mosaic will have to be
vaccinated against COVID-19, beginning September 13th. Mosaic hopes
of have all doctors and administrators vaccinated by the beginning of November.
The process of vaccinating the entire staff should be completed by the end of
the year.

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