Buchanan County continues to see an increase in the number of
new COVID-19 cases even as the county records its 24th
coronavirus-related death.

St. Joseph health officials report 54 new coronavirus cases on
Wednesday, bringing the county total to 2,160 since the pandemic
began.

The 24th death is a man in his 40s with underlying
health conditions.

Mosaic Life Care reports 38 COVID-19 patients are currently
being treated at the St. Joseph hospital.

Mosaic has now tested 31,911 area residents with
2,209 testing positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 399 tests.

Andrew County health officials report an increase of 13 new
COVID-19 cases, bringing that county’s total to 331. Andrew County has recorded
two deaths.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports 96 total cases.

Missouri health officials report 116,946 and 1,947 deaths.

Kansas health officials report 55,226 total
cases and 621 deaths.

This article has been updated with new Mosaic numbers.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBuchanan County continues to see an increase in the number of
new COVID-19 cases even as the county records its 24th
coronavirus-related death.St. Joseph health officials report 54 new coronavirus cases on
Wednesday, bringing the county total to 2,160 since the pandemic
began.The 24th death is a man in his 40s with underlying
health conditions.Mosaic Life Care reports 38 COVID-19 patients are currently
being treated at the St. Joseph hospital.Mosaic has now tested 31,911 area residents with
2,209 testing positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 399 tests.Andrew County health officials report an increase of 13 new
COVID-19 cases, bringing that county’s total to 331. Andrew County has recorded
two deaths.Doniphan County, Kansas reports 96 total cases.Missouri health officials report 116,946 and 1,947 deaths.Kansas health officials report 55,226 total
cases and 621 deaths.This article has been updated with new Mosaic numbers.

COVID cases continue to rise in Buchanan CO; another death reported

CLINTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Wednesday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 International Conventional Tractor driven by Matthew A. Gooch, 45, Holt, was pulling a mower and mowing along the exit ramp on Interstate 35 at exit 33 in Holt.

The mower threw gravel into a 2020 John Deere Tractor and a&nbsp; 2006 Dodge Ram driven by Glen G. Pannkuk, Forrest City, Iowa, that was southbound on the exit ramp. The pickup rear-ended the tractor.

Holt EMS transporteed Pannkuk to Liberty Hospital. Gooch was not injured. The MSHP had incomplete seat belt usage information.

CLINTON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Wednesday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 International Conventional Tractor driven by Matthew A. Gooch, 45, Holt, was pulling a mower and mowing along the exit ramp on Interstate 35 at exit 33 in Holt.The mower threw gravel into a 2020 John Deere Tractor and a&nbsp; 2006 Dodge Ram driven by Glen G. Pannkuk, Forrest City, Iowa, that was southbound on the exit ramp. The pickup rear-ended the tractor.Holt EMS transporteed Pannkuk to Liberty Hospital. Gooch was not injured. The MSHP had incomplete seat belt usage information.

Driver hospitalized after pickup rear-ends tractor

Hiawatha USD 415 is moving back to remote learning due to a rise in COVID-19 cases.&nbsp;

In a message to parents, Superintendent Lonnie Moser wrote:

"Earlier today, USD 415&nbsp;received news from the&nbsp;N.E.K. Multi-County Health Department and our local healthcare providers of a significant increase in confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our community and in our schools. These cases have impacted our schools to a great extent.&nbsp; While many of the cases in our schools are isolated in one building, the consequences have hit all of our schools.&nbsp; It has also made it impossible to effectively staff our school buildings.&nbsp; As a result, we will be moving from our current&nbsp;in-person instructional model to remote learning for all students. 

Fortunately, we have planned for this scenario and are ready to quickly make the transition. We will begin the remote learning model for all grade levels tomorrow, September 24th.&nbsp; We anticipate staying in the remote learning phase through October 9th.&nbsp; We hope to be able to return to in-person learning on October 9th.&nbsp; This cannot be guaranteed at this time, however.&nbsp; We will continue to update you through this two week period.&nbsp; Your childrens’ schools will also be contacting families with more details.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Information regarding food service will be provided later today as well. As all students will become remote learners for the next two weeks, it will be necessary for parents to fill out a USD 415 Remote Learning Assurances form.

This is an unfortunate situation and one we have worked diligently to avoid.&nbsp; We regret this situation, but it cannot be avoided."

Hiawatha USD 415 is moving back to remote learning due to a rise in COVID-19 cases.&nbsp;In a message to parents, Superintendent Lonnie Moser wrote:"Earlier today, USD 415&nbsp;received news from the&nbsp;N.E.K. Multi-County Health Department and our local healthcare providers of a significant increase in confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our community and in our schools. These cases have impacted our schools to a great extent.&nbsp; While many of the cases in our schools are isolated in one building, the consequences have hit all of our schools.&nbsp; It has also made it impossible to effectively staff our school buildings.&nbsp; As a result, we will be moving from our current&nbsp;in-person instructional model to remote learning for all students. Fortunately, we have planned for this scenario and are ready to quickly make the transition. We will begin the remote learning model for all grade levels tomorrow, September 24th.&nbsp; We anticipate staying in the remote learning phase through October 9th.&nbsp; We hope to be able to return to in-person learning on October 9th.&nbsp; This cannot be guaranteed at this time, however.&nbsp; We will continue to update you through this two week period.&nbsp; Your childrens’ schools will also be contacting families with more details.&nbsp;&nbsp;Information regarding food service will be provided later today as well. As all students will become remote learners for the next two weeks, it will be necessary for parents to fill out a USD 415 Remote Learning Assurances form.This is an unfortunate situation and one we have worked diligently to avoid.&nbsp; We regret this situation, but it cannot be avoided."

Hiawatha USD 415  moving back to remote learning 

Savannah
school officials have decided to move the Homecoming Parade to the spring.

The
Savannah R3 School District announced that and other changes to protect
students, staff, and patron from the coronavirus pandemic.

The
school district says the Homecoming Parade will be moved to the spring when it is
hoped the entire community can be invited and COVID-19 restrictions lifted. All
Savannah schools will be released two hours early on Friday, October 2nd,
as scheduled.&nbsp; The football game will be
held and live-streamed in accordance with MEC guidelines. Coronation will be
held on the football field prior to the game and will be live-streamed on the
Savannah High School Facebook page. The pep rally will be held outside during
school hours to allow for social distancing. Homecoming celebrations and
activities at Savannah schools will take place as usual.

“While athletics and extracurricular activities are a vital part
of our district, our ultimate goal is to keep our buildings open to serve the
educational needs of our students,” the district stated in a news release.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSavannah
school officials have decided to move the Homecoming Parade to the spring.The
Savannah R3 School District announced that and other changes to protect
students, staff, and patron from the coronavirus pandemic.The
school district says the Homecoming Parade will be moved to the spring when it is
hoped the entire community can be invited and COVID-19 restrictions lifted. All
Savannah schools will be released two hours early on Friday, October 2nd,
as scheduled.&nbsp; The football game will be
held and live-streamed in accordance with MEC guidelines. Coronation will be
held on the football field prior to the game and will be live-streamed on the
Savannah High School Facebook page. The pep rally will be held outside during
school hours to allow for social distancing. Homecoming celebrations and
activities at Savannah schools will take place as usual.“While athletics and extracurricular activities are a vital part
of our district, our ultimate goal is to keep our buildings open to serve the
educational needs of our students,” the district stated in a news release.

Savannah moves Homecoming Parade to spring

St. Joseph health officials report a huge spike in new
COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County and say the total this month has already
passed the total for May.

Two more coronavirus-related deaths have been reported; both
men, one in his 70s and the other in his 60s, both with underlying health
issues.

Health officials report 81 new cases of the coronavirus, by
far the biggest single-day jump this month, far exceeding the count of 35 on
Monday and 45 on Sunday. The jump in new cases brings the total this month to
703. St. Joseph health officials reported 625 COVID-19 cases in May when the
pandemic began to really ramp up.

Buchanan County now reports 2,106 total cases since
counting began; 1,687 confirmed and 419 probable. The county reports
a total of 23 deaths.

Mosaic Life Care reports 37 COVID-19 patients are being
treated at its St. Joseph hospital as of Wednesday morning. Mosaic has now tested 31,449 area
residents with 2,157 testing positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 273 tests.

Andrew County reports eight new COVID-19 cases, bringing the
county total to 317. The county has recorded two deaths.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports 95 cases.

Missouri health officials report 115,366 with
1,864 deaths.

Kansas health officials report 53,959 total cases
with 600 deaths.

This article has been updated with latest Mosaic figures.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report a huge spike in new
COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County and say the total this month has already
passed the total for May.Two more coronavirus-related deaths have been reported; both
men, one in his 70s and the other in his 60s, both with underlying health
issues.Health officials report 81 new cases of the coronavirus, by
far the biggest single-day jump this month, far exceeding the count of 35 on
Monday and 45 on Sunday. The jump in new cases brings the total this month to
703. St. Joseph health officials reported 625 COVID-19 cases in May when the
pandemic began to really ramp up.Buchanan County now reports 2,106 total cases since
counting began; 1,687 confirmed and 419 probable. The county reports
a total of 23 deaths.Mosaic Life Care reports 37 COVID-19 patients are being
treated at its St. Joseph hospital as of Wednesday morning. Mosaic has now tested 31,449 area
residents with 2,157 testing positive. Mosaic is awaiting results from 273 tests.Andrew County reports eight new COVID-19 cases, bringing the
county total to 317. The county has recorded two deaths.Doniphan County, Kansas reports 95 cases.Missouri health officials report 115,366 with
1,864 deaths.Kansas health officials report 53,959 total cases
with 600 deaths.This article has been updated with latest Mosaic figures.

Huge spike in COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County; two more deaths

ATCHISON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Wednesday in Atchison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1994 Chevy 1500 driven by Cody A. Stoner, 34, Fairfax, was westbound on MO 46 at U.S. 59. 

The driver failed to stop at the stop sign at the intersection. The pickup struck the front of a southbound John Deere Motor Grader driven by Jake R. Harbin, 33, Tarkio.

Atchison County EMS transported to a 7-year-old boy and an 8-year-old girl in the pickup to Fairfax Hospital.&nbsp; &nbsp;Stoner and Harbin were not injured.&nbsp; Harbin was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.&nbsp;

ATCHISON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Wednesday in Atchison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1994 Chevy 1500 driven by Cody A. Stoner, 34, Fairfax, was westbound on MO 46 at U.S. 59. The driver failed to stop at the stop sign at the intersection. The pickup struck the front of a southbound John Deere Motor Grader driven by Jake R. Harbin, 33, Tarkio.Atchison County EMS transported to a 7-year-old boy and an 8-year-old girl in the pickup to Fairfax Hospital.&nbsp; &nbsp;Stoner and Harbin were not injured.&nbsp; Harbin was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.&nbsp;

2 children hospitalized after pickup, road grader crash

The new citywide mask mandate has been in place for almost a week in St. Joseph and St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Patt Lilly says&nbsp;he sees the new mandate as beneficial to businesses.

"They don't have to argue the point with employees, they don't have to argue the point, rightly or wrongly, with customers, everyone wears a mask," Lilly tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. "Now there's a consistent policy, everybody's being treated the same."

Lilly says we need to do everything we can as a community to keep businesses open.

"Taking precautions, doing those things that we need to do to be smart about the virus and to protect one another, I think ultimately will allow us to maintain our businesses going forward and at such time we have a vaccine, hopefully a more robust return to business," Lilly says.

The 30-day mask mandate went into effect <a href="https://www.stjoemo.info/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1099">on Thursday</a> and requires masks in all indoor public places.&nbsp;

by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostThe new citywide mask mandate has been in place for almost a week in St. Joseph and St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Patt Lilly says&nbsp;he sees the new mandate as beneficial to businesses."They don't have to argue the point with employees, they don't have to argue the point, rightly or wrongly, with customers, everyone wears a mask," Lilly tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. "Now there's a consistent policy, everybody's being treated the same."Lilly says we need to do everything we can as a community to keep businesses open."Taking precautions, doing those things that we need to do to be smart about the virus and to protect one another, I think ultimately will allow us to maintain our businesses going forward and at such time we have a vaccine, hopefully a more robust return to business," Lilly says.The 30-day mask mandate went into effect <a href="https://www.stjoemo.info/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1099">on Thursday</a> and requires masks in all indoor public places.&nbsp;

Chamber president says new mask mandate better for businesses

Benton High School has closed for two weeks after a COVID-19
outbreak. Lindbergh Elementary School students returned to the classroom this
morning after the coronavirus forced the school to go online for a couple of
weeks.

St. Joseph School Superintendent Doug Van Zyl says the
district still maintains the best education comes from classroom instruction,
but if school officials believe they can’t keep kids healthy, they’ll switch to
online for a time.

“And if we feel like things are kind of (like) catching a
snowball going downhill, if there’s a way for us to slow it down by making an
adjustment and going remotely then that’s what we’re going to do and we
definitely appreciate our students and our parents understanding that,” Van Zyl
tells St. Joseph Post. “We know it’s inconvenient for them.”

Van Zyl says school is going well, considering the adversity
the district faces. He does acknowledge the district is experiencing
inconvenience, stress, and anxiety this year unlike what staff and students
have ever faced before.

Van Zyl says the district will close a school and switch to
online courses depending on the situation.

“One staff member or one student can expose one person, just themselves,
or they could expose 50 people,” Van Zyl says. “So, it really just depends on
the situation and that creates a larger need sometimes within our schools.”

The two schools which have been affected so far are in
opposite ends of the city.

Lindbergh is located in north St. Joseph, while Benton is the south
St. Joseph high school. Benton students will receive instructions via computer
through October 5th with the high scheduled to reopen on the 6th.

Van Zyl says there is one obstacle that really stands out as
the district works through this semester.

“Well, I think just how brand new this is to everybody and you
don’t have anybody who really can come out and say this is the best way to do it.”

Van Zyl says school officials usually can be guided by best
practices, but there is no best practice for this. He says school districts
throughout the region are doing the best they can and are sharing tips with
each other.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600879551660.jpeg" alt="Lindbergh Elementary School/Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Lindbergh Elementary School/Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBenton High School has closed for two weeks after a COVID-19
outbreak. Lindbergh Elementary School students returned to the classroom this
morning after the coronavirus forced the school to go online for a couple of
weeks.St. Joseph School Superintendent Doug Van Zyl says the
district still maintains the best education comes from classroom instruction,
but if school officials believe they can’t keep kids healthy, they’ll switch to
online for a time.“And if we feel like things are kind of (like) catching a
snowball going downhill, if there’s a way for us to slow it down by making an
adjustment and going remotely then that’s what we’re going to do and we
definitely appreciate our students and our parents understanding that,” Van Zyl
tells St. Joseph Post. “We know it’s inconvenient for them.”Van Zyl says school is going well, considering the adversity
the district faces. He does acknowledge the district is experiencing
inconvenience, stress, and anxiety this year unlike what staff and students
have ever faced before.Van Zyl says the district will close a school and switch to
online courses depending on the situation.“One staff member or one student can expose one person, just themselves,
or they could expose 50 people,” Van Zyl says. “So, it really just depends on
the situation and that creates a larger need sometimes within our schools.”The two schools which have been affected so far are in
opposite ends of the city.Lindbergh is located in north St. Joseph, while Benton is the south
St. Joseph high school. Benton students will receive instructions via computer
through October 5th with the high scheduled to reopen on the 6th.Van Zyl says there is one obstacle that really stands out as
the district works through this semester.“Well, I think just how brand new this is to everybody and you
don’t have anybody who really can come out and say this is the best way to do it.”Van Zyl says school officials usually can be guided by best
practices, but there is no best practice for this. He says school districts
throughout the region are doing the best they can and are sharing tips with
each other.

School closings indicate difficulty of holding class during pandemic

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Tuesday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 GMC Sierra driven by Kyra J. Smith, 35, Clarinda, IA., was westbound on 110th Street five miles north of Elmo.

The pickup struck a 2017 Chryler Pacifica driven by Connie L. Marriott, 78, Clarinda, IA., that was southbound on Canyon Road.

The Pacific entered the intersection before the GMC and both driver tried to stop.&nbsp;&nbsp;

EMS transported Marriott to Mosaic in Maryville. Smith was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Tuesday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 GMC Sierra driven by Kyra J. Smith, 35, Clarinda, IA., was westbound on 110th Street five miles north of Elmo.The pickup struck a 2017 Chryler Pacifica driven by Connie L. Marriott, 78, Clarinda, IA., that was southbound on Canyon Road.The Pacific entered the intersection before the GMC and both driver tried to stop.&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS transported Marriott to Mosaic in Maryville. Smith was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Woman hospitalized after Nodaway Co. crash

St. Joseph Police Chief Chris Connally says most professional
police departments have incorporated the practices called for in wake of the
death of George Floyd while in custody.

Floyd, a black man, died after a white Minneapolis police
officer kneeled on his neck to pin him to the pavement.

Connally says much of the protest in wake of the Floyd death
as well as other questionable deaths is off base.

“Not everything is well thought out,” Connally tells host
Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “I think every community has to look at the department.
I think most of the reforms, significant reforms, that I have heard with use of
force policies and things like that, most certified agencies or accredited
agencies already do most of those things. There’s a lot of talk about things
that have been in place for years and years.”

Connally says rather than calling for the defunding of police,
the call should be to fund more police training and providing enough money to
retain good police officers.



Connally says many of the cases raised as examples of police
brutality are not being placed in perspective.

“And I think in a lot of cases that I see across the country
the perspective of law enforcement or some of the evidence-based facts in law
enforcement are in some cases being ignored,” according to Connally.

Connally says issues need to be taken care off on the
community level.

“We have to look at our community and other communities have
to look at their communities,” Connally says, “and you get the level of policing
that you demand and that you’re willing to pay for and that’s important, too.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Police Chief Chris Connally says most professional
police departments have incorporated the practices called for in wake of the
death of George Floyd while in custody.Floyd, a black man, died after a white Minneapolis police
officer kneeled on his neck to pin him to the pavement.Connally says much of the protest in wake of the Floyd death
as well as other questionable deaths is off base.“Not everything is well thought out,” Connally tells host
Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “I think every community has to look at the department.
I think most of the reforms, significant reforms, that I have heard with use of
force policies and things like that, most certified agencies or accredited
agencies already do most of those things. There’s a lot of talk about things
that have been in place for years and years.”Connally says rather than calling for the defunding of police,
the call should be to fund more police training and providing enough money to
retain good police officers.

Connally says many of the cases raised as examples of police
brutality are not being placed in perspective.“And I think in a lot of cases that I see across the country
the perspective of law enforcement or some of the evidence-based facts in law
enforcement are in some cases being ignored,” according to Connally.Connally says issues need to be taken care off on the
community level.“We have to look at our community and other communities have
to look at their communities,” Connally says, “and you get the level of policing
that you demand and that you’re willing to pay for and that’s important, too.”

St. Joseph Police Chief says many reforms already in place

Benton High School will go online after staff members tested
positive for COVID-19.

St. Joseph school officials made the announcement this
evening in a news release. Benton will be temporarily closed through October
the 5th with plans calling for the south St. Joseph high school to
reopen on Tuesday, the 6th.

School officials say they made the decision after staff
members tested positive for the coronavirus and a significant number of staff
and students had to be quarantined. Remote learning for Benton High School
students will begin Wednesday and run for the next two weeks in accordance with
health official quarantined recommendations when someone tests positive for COVID-19.
Officials say the decision was made in the best interest of students and staff.

School officials ask parents
and students to make note of the following important information:

The two-week closure does not
impact Benton students who are part of the SJSD Virtual Academy. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600736972737.jpeg" alt="Benton High School/Photo courtesy of St. Joseph School District" />
 <figcaption>Benton High School/Photo courtesy of St. Joseph School District</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBenton High School will go online after staff members tested
positive for COVID-19.St. Joseph school officials made the announcement this
evening in a news release. Benton will be temporarily closed through October
the 5th with plans calling for the south St. Joseph high school to
reopen on Tuesday, the 6th.School officials say they made the decision after staff
members tested positive for the coronavirus and a significant number of staff
and students had to be quarantined. Remote learning for Benton High School
students will begin Wednesday and run for the next two weeks in accordance with
health official quarantined recommendations when someone tests positive for COVID-19.
Officials say the decision was made in the best interest of students and staff.School officials ask parents
and students to make note of the following important information:<ul>
 <li>Teachers will reach out
 to students during the day on Sept. 22 regarding their online schedule and
 assignments. </li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Free meals will be
 provided to students during the two weeks of remote learning. Parents will
 receive a link to sign up for meals which are available for pickup on Tuesdays
 and Fridays from 9:45-10:15 a.m. In the meantime, if you need to pick up
 meals on Tuesday, Sept. 22, but are not already signed up, please contact
 Nutrition Services tomorrow after 8 am at 816-671-4140. </li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>If you are in need of a
 hotspot because of lack of internet services at your home, please contact
 the Benton High School Office at 816-671-4030.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>During the next two
 weeks of remote learning, parents are strongly encouraged to keep their
 children at home and away from large crowds or gatherings where they could
 become exposed to COVID-19.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Please continue to
 monitor your children and other family members daily for symptoms to help
 keep everyone healthy!</li>
 </ul>The two-week closure does not
impact Benton students who are part of the SJSD Virtual Academy.

Benton HS to go online after staff test positive for COVID-19

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after midnight Tuesday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1990 Chrysler New Yorker driven by Sean M. Williamson, 29, Kansas City, was northbound on Interstate 29 three miles north of Agency.

The vehicle left the road, struck a cable barrier and overturned

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

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after midnight Tuesday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1990 Chrysler New Yorker driven by Sean M. Williamson, 29, Kansas City, was northbound on Interstate 29 three miles north of Agency.The vehicle left the road, struck a cable barrier and overturnedBuchanan County EMS transported Williamson to Mosaic Life Care. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man hospitalized after car strikes cable barrier, overturns

CALDWELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 9p.m. Monday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Dodge Ram driven by Jonathan E. Feil, 18, Braymer, was northbound on Catawba Drive four miles northwest of Braymer.

The driver came to a stop at the stop sign and then traveled into the path of an eastbound 2003 GMC Sierra Van driven by Seth A Smith, 37, Braymer.

Caldwell County EMS transported a passenger in the van Ashlee K. Smith, 37, Braymer, to Liberty Hospital. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

CALDWELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 9p.m. Monday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Dodge Ram driven by Jonathan E. Feil, 18, Braymer, was northbound on Catawba Drive four miles northwest of Braymer.The driver came to a stop at the stop sign and then traveled into the path of an eastbound 2003 GMC Sierra Van driven by Seth A Smith, 37, Braymer.Caldwell County EMS transported a passenger in the van Ashlee K. Smith, 37, Braymer, to Liberty Hospital. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

COVID-19 cases continue to spike in Buchanan County with St.
Joseph health officials reporting 35 new cases on Monday after reporting 45 new
cases on Sunday, bringing the county total since the pandemic began to 2,025.

Health officials also report an additional death since their
last report, bringing the total of coronavirus-related deaths in Buchanan
County to 21. The latest death was a woman in her 30s with an underlying health
condition.

Mosaic Life Care reports 31 COVID-19 patients are being
treated at the St. Joseph hospital as of Monday morning.

Mosaic has now tested 30,571 area residents with 2,080 testing
positive for COVID-19. Mosaic is awaiting results from 76 tests.

Andrew County health officials now report 302 total cases of
COVID-19 with two deaths.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports 95 total cases.

Missouri health officials report 114,307 COVID-19 total cases,
resulting in 1,807 deaths.

Kansas has recorded 53,959 total cases and 600 deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostCOVID-19 cases continue to spike in Buchanan County with St.
Joseph health officials reporting 35 new cases on Monday after reporting 45 new
cases on Sunday, bringing the county total since the pandemic began to 2,025.Health officials also report an additional death since their
last report, bringing the total of coronavirus-related deaths in Buchanan
County to 21. The latest death was a woman in her 30s with an underlying health
condition.Mosaic Life Care reports 31 COVID-19 patients are being
treated at the St. Joseph hospital as of Monday morning.Mosaic has now tested 30,571 area residents with 2,080 testing
positive for COVID-19. Mosaic is awaiting results from 76 tests.Andrew County health officials now report 302 total cases of
COVID-19 with two deaths.Doniphan County, Kansas reports 95 total cases.Missouri health officials report 114,307 COVID-19 total cases,
resulting in 1,807 deaths.Kansas has recorded 53,959 total cases and 600 deaths.

COVID-19 cases continue to spike in Buchanan County with an additional death

ANDREW COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just before 8p.m. Sunday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Dodge pickup driven by Andrew C. Schneider, 24, Rosendale, was southbound on Route C five miles north of Savannah.

The pickup traveled into the northbound lanes and struck a 2008 Chevy van driven by Danny K. Donahoo, 69, Rosendale,&nbsp; head-on.&nbsp;

Donahoo and a passenger Diane L. Donahoo, 68, Rosendale, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to Meierhoffer Funeral Home.

 Schneider was treated at Mosaic, released and arrested on requested charges of DWI, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; 

The occupants of the van were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just before 8p.m. Sunday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Dodge pickup driven by Andrew C. Schneider, 24, Rosendale, was southbound on Route C five miles north of Savannah.The pickup traveled into the northbound lanes and struck a 2008 Chevy van driven by Danny K. Donahoo, 69, Rosendale,&nbsp; head-on.&nbsp;Donahoo and a passenger Diane L. Donahoo, 68, Rosendale, were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to Meierhoffer Funeral Home. Schneider was treated at Mosaic, released and arrested on requested charges of DWI, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; The occupants of the van were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

24-year-old accused of DWI in fatal Andrew Co. crash

Recent antibody testing in Buchanan County discloses a low
number of county residents have had COVID-19.

While that is good news, it also discloses the county is far
from herd immunity.

Mosaic Life Care Chief Quality Officer, Dr. Edward Kammerer,
says without herd immunity, area residents need to follow current practices.

“There are some core aspects that are necessary to continue to
control this pandemic,” Kammerer says. “It goes back to the same basics that we
started with which have been proven over time. It’s hand hygiene. It is wearing
a mask and it is social distancing that are going to make a difference.”

Antibody testing of more than 2,300 Buchanan County residents
disclosed only three percent had had COVID-19. That number could rise due to
the recent increase in new COVID-19 cases, especially those cases which have
landed more residents in the hospital.

Mosaic reported this morning it is currently treating 31
COVID-19 patients in the St. Joseph hospital, up a bit from the weekend, though
off the high set last week of 36. Mosaic has tested 30,571 area residents with
2,080 testing positive.

Kammerer says it takes a rate of at least 60% of a community to
reach herd immunity. He says without reaching that threshold, the best shot the
county has to hold down the spread of the virus is development of a vaccine.

“So, the vaccine becomes a significant aspect, especially for
our community where we have a low penetrance,” Kammerer says. “Moving forward,
until that vaccine comes up, it is essential, and I applaud the mayor for putting
in a mandatory mask mandate. This is essential for us to get back to doing what
we can do in order to keep our community safe and keep that penetrance low
until we get the vaccine and we have herd immunity.” 

COVID-19 remains a very real threat in Buchanan County, according
to Kammerer, but the seriousness of the virus depends on where it attacks the
body. Kammerer says most who contract the coronavirus won’t have to seek
hospital care.

“All these other symptoms that you here about, they are interesting,
they are fascinating to me; the loss of smell, loss of taste, you get headaches,
you get sore throats, so get fevers, you get body aches. None of those land you
in the hospital,” according to Kammerer. “You can’t taste, you don’t end up in
the hospital. But what does land you in the hospital, is when you get it down
in your lungs.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostRecent antibody testing in Buchanan County discloses a low
number of county residents have had COVID-19.While that is good news, it also discloses the county is far
from herd immunity.Mosaic Life Care Chief Quality Officer, Dr. Edward Kammerer,
says without herd immunity, area residents need to follow current practices.“There are some core aspects that are necessary to continue to
control this pandemic,” Kammerer says. “It goes back to the same basics that we
started with which have been proven over time. It’s hand hygiene. It is wearing
a mask and it is social distancing that are going to make a difference.”Antibody testing of more than 2,300 Buchanan County residents
disclosed only three percent had had COVID-19. That number could rise due to
the recent increase in new COVID-19 cases, especially those cases which have
landed more residents in the hospital.Mosaic reported this morning it is currently treating 31
COVID-19 patients in the St. Joseph hospital, up a bit from the weekend, though
off the high set last week of 36. Mosaic has tested 30,571 area residents with
2,080 testing positive.Kammerer says it takes a rate of at least 60% of a community to
reach herd immunity. He says without reaching that threshold, the best shot the
county has to hold down the spread of the virus is development of a vaccine.“So, the vaccine becomes a significant aspect, especially for
our community where we have a low penetrance,” Kammerer says. “Moving forward,
until that vaccine comes up, it is essential, and I applaud the mayor for putting
in a mandatory mask mandate. This is essential for us to get back to doing what
we can do in order to keep our community safe and keep that penetrance low
until we get the vaccine and we have herd immunity.” COVID-19 remains a very real threat in Buchanan County, according
to Kammerer, but the seriousness of the virus depends on where it attacks the
body. Kammerer says most who contract the coronavirus won’t have to seek
hospital care.“All these other symptoms that you here about, they are interesting,
they are fascinating to me; the loss of smell, loss of taste, you get headaches,
you get sore throats, so get fevers, you get body aches. None of those land you
in the hospital,” according to Kammerer. “You can’t taste, you don’t end up in
the hospital. But what does land you in the hospital, is when you get it down
in your lungs.”

Anti-COVID practices vital until vaccine is developed

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Acting Sec. of Labor Ryan Wright.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas Sec. of Labor Ryan Wright" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/fbh3r-ec207d?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 Acting Sec. of Labor Ryan Wright.

🎤Forward Ever: Kan. Acting Sec. of Labor Ryan Wright

Missouri U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt
insists President Trump has a constitutional obligation to nominate a replacement
for Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Blunt, on CBS’ Face the
Nation Sunday, praised Ginsburg.

“Well,
first of all, I wish we did have more time to celebrate Justice Ruth Bader
Ginsburg. She was amazing; had an amazing life,” Blunt told host Margaret
Brennan. “Very smart, very determined, very dedicated to the job. You
know, in recent years, she's more often been in dissent rather than in the
majority. But when she was in dissent, the majority had to be at their very
best to explain why their opinion was what their opinion was. And so, she
served the country well; a brilliant mind, made a difference in our country.”



Blunt acknowledged it would
be difficult to get a nominee to replace Ginsburg through the Senate process
before Election Day.

“This should take as long as
it needs to take, but no longer. There is plenty of time to get this done, but
to get it done before Election Day everything has to work, I think, pretty
precisely,” Blunt said. “Ruth Bader Ginsburg was nominated and confirmed in 40
days. Other justices have taken longer than that.”

The Supreme Court announced
Ginsburg’s death Friday. Ginsburg died of complications from pancreatic cancer.
She was 87.

Blunt insisted President Trump has a constitutional obligation
to nominate a replacement for Ginsburg.

“There are good choices out there. I’m sure the president is
going to make one,” Blunt said. “I look forward to the name he sends up and
what they may add to the court.”

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5zxGeGEl2Rw"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt
insists President Trump has a constitutional obligation to nominate a replacement
for Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.Blunt, on CBS’ Face the
Nation Sunday, praised Ginsburg.“Well,
first of all, I wish we did have more time to celebrate Justice Ruth Bader
Ginsburg. She was amazing; had an amazing life,” Blunt told host Margaret
Brennan. “Very smart, very determined, very dedicated to the job. You
know, in recent years, she's more often been in dissent rather than in the
majority. But when she was in dissent, the majority had to be at their very
best to explain why their opinion was what their opinion was. And so, she
served the country well; a brilliant mind, made a difference in our country.”

Blunt acknowledged it would
be difficult to get a nominee to replace Ginsburg through the Senate process
before Election Day.“This should take as long as
it needs to take, but no longer. There is plenty of time to get this done, but
to get it done before Election Day everything has to work, I think, pretty
precisely,” Blunt said. “Ruth Bader Ginsburg was nominated and confirmed in 40
days. Other justices have taken longer than that.”The Supreme Court announced
Ginsburg’s death Friday. Ginsburg died of complications from pancreatic cancer.
She was 87.Blunt insisted President Trump has a constitutional obligation
to nominate a replacement for Ginsburg.“There are good choices out there. I’m sure the president is
going to make one,” Blunt said. “I look forward to the name he sends up and
what they may add to the court.”

Sen. Blunt: Trump has obligation to make Supreme Court nomination

Lindbergh
Elementary School in St. Joseph plans to reopen Wednesday after a 14-day closure
due to the coronavirus.

Lindbergh
shifted to online courses after a number of staff members tested positive for
COVID-19 and had to be quarantined. School officials informed those who had
come into contact with those infected.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600707215948.jpeg" alt="Lindbergh Elementary School, St. Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Lindbergh Elementary School, St. Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>Lindbergh
Elementary School in St. Joseph plans to reopen Wednesday after a 14-day closure
due to the coronavirus.Lindbergh
shifted to online courses after a number of staff members tested positive for
COVID-19 and had to be quarantined. School officials informed those who had
come into contact with those infected.

Lindbergh set to welcome students back Wednesday

A city manager in Texas with extensive ties to Missouri has
been named the new St. Joseph City Manager.

Gary Edwards is currently city manager of Aransas Pass, Texas
and worked to help the community recover from Hurricane Harvey in 2017.

Edwards’ contract has to be formally approved by the city
council. His first day with the city is scheduled for November 9th.
He will be paid $160,000 annually.

“Gary has the qualities the City Council was looking for in a
city manager and will be a good fit for the community. His strength in
financial management, economic development and negotiations will serve the
organization well. I look forward to Gary’s experience and leadership as we
continue to pursue the strategic goals and plans of the City Council,” St.
Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray said in a written statement issued by the city.

Gary Edwards has worked in Missouri previously, including
stints as Sedalia City Administrator and Moberly City Manager. He received an
under graduate degree from College of the Ozarks at Point Lookout, Missouri and
a graduate degree from Missouri State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600706143813.jpeg" alt="Gary Edwards/Photo courtesy of the City of St. Joseph" />
 <figcaption>Gary Edwards/Photo courtesy of the City of St. Joseph</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA city manager in Texas with extensive ties to Missouri has
been named the new St. Joseph City Manager.Gary Edwards is currently city manager of Aransas Pass, Texas
and worked to help the community recover from Hurricane Harvey in 2017.Edwards’ contract has to be formally approved by the city
council. His first day with the city is scheduled for November 9th.
He will be paid $160,000 annually.“Gary has the qualities the City Council was looking for in a
city manager and will be a good fit for the community. His strength in
financial management, economic development and negotiations will serve the
organization well. I look forward to Gary’s experience and leadership as we
continue to pursue the strategic goals and plans of the City Council,” St.
Joseph Mayor Bill McMurray said in a written statement issued by the city.Gary Edwards has worked in Missouri previously, including
stints as Sedalia City Administrator and Moberly City Manager. He received an
under graduate degree from College of the Ozarks at Point Lookout, Missouri and
a graduate degree from Missouri State University.

Texas city manager named new St. Joseph City Manager

Thanks to a grant, an annual career day-type event for high school students will switch to a virtual format this year.

Kristi Bailey with the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce says the My Success Event takes place this week.&nbsp;

“We were very fortunate to receive a Hometown Economic Recovery Grant from Evergy that is helping us bring this major workforce development event online,” Bailey says. “So kids can still learn from companies, get to talk to representatives face-to-face, just through their computer instead of in-person.”

Bailey says 1,800 area high school seniors will be participating in the My Success Event this year. The event typically features over 50 area businesses with booths set up at Wyatt Baptist Church for students to explore potential careers in the St. Joseph area.

“These high school seniors are going to graduate next spring and they’re going to need jobs or training to get jobs or go off into college, so even though there’s a pandemic, that doesn’t stop the need for students to be able to plan their futures,” Bailey says. “It's definitely very important for them to still get this information, so online is the way we chose to do that this year so they didn’t miss out.”

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce received the $10,000 grant from Evergy to transform not only the My Success Event but another workforce development program - Manufacturing Day in October - from in-person to virtual events. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600281346862.jpeg" alt="Students check out the USDA Food Safety Inspection Service display at the My Success Event in St. Joseph in 2017. File photo by Sarah Thomack." />
 <figcaption>Students check out the USDA Food Safety Inspection Service display at the My Success Event in St. Joseph in 2017. File photo by Sarah Thomack.</figcaption>
 </figure>by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostThanks to a grant, an annual career day-type event for high school students will switch to a virtual format this year.Kristi Bailey with the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce says the My Success Event takes place this week.&nbsp;“We were very fortunate to receive a Hometown Economic Recovery Grant from Evergy that is helping us bring this major workforce development event online,” Bailey says. “So kids can still learn from companies, get to talk to representatives face-to-face, just through their computer instead of in-person.”Bailey says 1,800 area high school seniors will be participating in the My Success Event this year. The event typically features over 50 area businesses with booths set up at Wyatt Baptist Church for students to explore potential careers in the St. Joseph area.“These high school seniors are going to graduate next spring and they’re going to need jobs or training to get jobs or go off into college, so even though there’s a pandemic, that doesn’t stop the need for students to be able to plan their futures,” Bailey says. “It's definitely very important for them to still get this information, so online is the way we chose to do that this year so they didn’t miss out.”The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce received the $10,000 grant from Evergy to transform not only the My Success Event but another workforce development program - Manufacturing Day in October - from in-person to virtual events.

Annual workforce development event for students moves to virtual format

One St. Joseph agency is thinking about Christmas in September as they begin discussions on how to conduct their annual holiday program during a pandemic.

The AFL-CIO Community Services Agency coordinates the Adopt-A-Family Christmas program each year which helps hundreds of families who need assistance during the holidays.

The agency's Soles for Christ shoe distribution <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/18a6a522-83a7-4924-a5bf-0bb182e22514">was postponed</a> due to COVID-19 concerns and AFL-CIO Executive Director Penny Adams says they expect the Christmas program will see some changes this year.

"We may have to start it a little bit early and we may have to do more applications by phone or some online applications," Adams tells St. Joseph Post.

Adams says they will soon be contacting adopters and volunteers who are regularly involved in the program for feedback.

"We depend on the adopters, without them we won't have our program," Adams says. "The majority of them go out and actually shop and some of them may not be willing to do that, but yet they might be willing to purchase gift certificates or things like that to give to the families. A lot of folks do online shopping so there might be a way around that shopping issue.” 

For more information on the Adopt-A-Family Christmas program contact AFL-CIO Community Services at (816) 364-1131 or <a href="https://helpmenow.org/programs/adopt-a-family/">click here</a>.

by SARAH THOMACKSt. Joseph PostOne St. Joseph agency is thinking about Christmas in September as they begin discussions on how to conduct their annual holiday program during a pandemic.The AFL-CIO Community Services Agency coordinates the Adopt-A-Family Christmas program each year which helps hundreds of families who need assistance during the holidays.The agency's Soles for Christ shoe distribution <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/18a6a522-83a7-4924-a5bf-0bb182e22514">was postponed</a> due to COVID-19 concerns and AFL-CIO Executive Director Penny Adams says they expect the Christmas program will see some changes this year."We may have to start it a little bit early and we may have to do more applications by phone or some online applications," Adams tells St. Joseph Post.Adams says they will soon be contacting adopters and volunteers who are regularly involved in the program for feedback."We depend on the adopters, without them we won't have our program," Adams says. "The majority of them go out and actually shop and some of them may not be willing to do that, but yet they might be willing to purchase gift certificates or things like that to give to the families. A lot of folks do online shopping so there might be a way around that shopping issue.” For more information on the Adopt-A-Family Christmas program contact AFL-CIO Community Services at (816) 364-1131 or <a href="https://helpmenow.org/programs/adopt-a-family/">click here</a>.

AFL-CIO begins planning for how to coordinate Christmas program during pandemic

GENTRY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Saturday in Gentry County.&nbsp;

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Polaris Razor driven by Howard G. Patterson, 70, Nevada, Iowa, was eastbound on 305th Street three miles east of Albany.

The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The UTV traveled off the road and overturned.

Grand River EMS transported Patterson and a 12-year-old passenger from Ankeny, Iowa, to Mosaic in Albany.

GENTRY COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Saturday in Gentry County.&nbsp;The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Polaris Razor driven by Howard G. Patterson, 70, Nevada, Iowa, was eastbound on 305th Street three miles east of Albany.The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The UTV traveled off the road and overturned.Grand River EMS transported Patterson and a 12-year-old passenger from Ankeny, Iowa, to Mosaic in Albany.

2 hospitalized after UTV overturns

ANDREW COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Friday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Volvo semi driven by Wendel Turk, 61, Cantonment, Florida, was northbound on Interstate 29 in St. Joseph.

The vehicle lost an axel. The axel traveled across the median into the southbound lanes and struck the windshield of a 2016 Toyota Avalon driven by Becky L. Jones, 65, Maryville.

The axel traveled back across the median and struck the windshield of a 2000 Pontiac Bonneville driven by Richard A. Sites, 71, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

Andrew County EMS transported Jones to Mosaic Life Care. Sites and Turk were not injured. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Friday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Volvo semi driven by Wendel Turk, 61, Cantonment, Florida, was northbound on Interstate 29 in St. Joseph.The vehicle lost an axel. The axel traveled across the median into the southbound lanes and struck the windshield of a 2016 Toyota Avalon driven by Becky L. Jones, 65, Maryville.The axel traveled back across the median and struck the windshield of a 2000 Pontiac Bonneville driven by Richard A. Sites, 71, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.Andrew County EMS transported Jones to Mosaic Life Care. Sites and Turk were not injured. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Maryville woman hospitalized after truck's axel strikes windshield

It appears a classic case of good news/bad news in the
disclosing of results from antibody testing of more than 2,300 Buchanan County
residents.

Mosaic Life Care reports of the 2,324 county residents tested,
only 64 tested positive; 3% of the total.

But the seemingly good news might not be so good for the area,
because it discloses Buchanan County is far from herd immunity against the
coronavirus.

Mosaic Life Care Chief Quality Officer, Dr. Edward Kammerer,
says with the area far from herd immunity, precautions such as hand washing,
mask wearing, and social distancing are vital.

“So, what that tells me, unfortunately with only 3% it tells
me a few things. It tells us we’re nowhere close to herd immunity inside of St.
Joseph and the surrounding area,” Kammerer tells reporters during a news
conference at Mosaic. “It means we have to remain vigilant. We have to stay on
our game. We still have a long way to go. We have thousands of cases to become
herd immune here.”

Twenty of the 64 testing positive were Mosaic employees.
Kammerer says that is a good rate, considering that some of Mosaic’s nursing
staff and others come in contact with COVID-19 patients. Twelve of the 64 had
previously testing positive for COVID-19.

Kammerer says the number and types of persons tested provides
a good sample of Buchanan County residents.

Kammerer says though it seems counterintuitive, he is a bit
disappointed the testing didn’t disclose a higher percentage of residents
having had COVID-19 at some point.

“So, at 3%, that’s an unfortunate aspect. It’s great. It means
that our methods and our efforts to quarantine early on were very successful.
However, that’s not a sustainable aspect either. We can’t keep America shut down,”’
Kammerer says. “So, we have to learn to move forward in an environment where we
don’t have herd immunity and we’re nowhere close to herd immunity.”

The testing lags behind a current surge in both new COVID-19
cases and coronavirus hospitalizations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600454956340.jpeg" alt="Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Lee Sawyer speaks during a news conference as Mosaic Life Care Chief Quality Officer, Dr. Edward Kammerer, looks on./Photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Lee Sawyer speaks during a news conference as Mosaic Life Care Chief Quality Officer, Dr. Edward Kammerer, looks on./Photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostIt appears a classic case of good news/bad news in the
disclosing of results from antibody testing of more than 2,300 Buchanan County
residents.Mosaic Life Care reports of the 2,324 county residents tested,
only 64 tested positive; 3% of the total.But the seemingly good news might not be so good for the area,
because it discloses Buchanan County is far from herd immunity against the
coronavirus.Mosaic Life Care Chief Quality Officer, Dr. Edward Kammerer,
says with the area far from herd immunity, precautions such as hand washing,
mask wearing, and social distancing are vital.“So, what that tells me, unfortunately with only 3% it tells
me a few things. It tells us we’re nowhere close to herd immunity inside of St.
Joseph and the surrounding area,” Kammerer tells reporters during a news
conference at Mosaic. “It means we have to remain vigilant. We have to stay on
our game. We still have a long way to go. We have thousands of cases to become
herd immune here.”Twenty of the 64 testing positive were Mosaic employees.
Kammerer says that is a good rate, considering that some of Mosaic’s nursing
staff and others come in contact with COVID-19 patients. Twelve of the 64 had
previously testing positive for COVID-19.Kammerer says the number and types of persons tested provides
a good sample of Buchanan County residents.Kammerer says though it seems counterintuitive, he is a bit
disappointed the testing didn’t disclose a higher percentage of residents
having had COVID-19 at some point.“So, at 3%, that’s an unfortunate aspect. It’s great. It means
that our methods and our efforts to quarantine early on were very successful.
However, that’s not a sustainable aspect either. We can’t keep America shut down,”’
Kammerer says. “So, we have to learn to move forward in an environment where we
don’t have herd immunity and we’re nowhere close to herd immunity.”The testing lags behind a current surge in both new COVID-19
cases and coronavirus hospitalizations.St. Joseph health officials report 25 new cases on Thursday after
reporting 46 new cases on Wednesday. Mosaic reports 35 COVID-19 patients being
treated in the St. Joseph hospital as for Friday morning.“We have definitely seen a spike in our community,” Kammerer
says, focusing especially on the hospitalizations. “All summer long, we pretty
much ran 15 to 20 in the hospital. It was like clockwork every day. We have
seen in the last two or three weeks a significant increase and we’re now up in
the 30s and high 20s on a pretty regular basis.”Buchanan County used $250,000 of the CARES Act funding sent
the county by the state to pay for the antibody testing.

Local