A late-spring snow will move across the region overnight Monday and into Tuesday morning, while subfreezing temperatures are expected early Wednesday.

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 10 a.m. Tuesday, as a rain/snow mix&nbsp; is expected to start around midnight Monday night and transition to all snow by 1 or 2 a.m. Tuesday.

"That'll continue well into the morning hours," National Weather Service Pleasant Hill meteorologist Jonathan Kurtz said. "It'll probably taper off through 8 or 9 a.m. (Tuesday) with some lingering rain/snow mix through noon across the area."

Kurtz says most models indicate between 1-3 inches of snow by noon Tuesday, with most accumulation happening on grassy or elevated surfaces.

"The main impacts from this might be some slushy roads there during the morning commute hours," he said. "I don't think we'll see much in the way of icing on the roads, but could be some slick spots out there with slush on the roads."

A snow event in late April isn't super common, but it's also not unheard of in this part of the country, according to Kurtz.

"We're subject to winter weather to the end of April or even early May," he pointed out. "Not out of the realm of possibility. It's kind of a late little spring burst of snow before we get out of the spring time frame."

Highs on Tuesday will rise into the mid-to-upper 40s, but lows on Tuesday and Wednesday night will be unseasonably cool and drop into the mid-to-upper-20s.

That has prompted a Freeze Warning, which runs from 10 p.m. Tuesday to 9 a.m. Wednesday. Kurtz says any sensitive vegetation could be killed if left unprotected.

"The best thing you can do is cover up your plants with plastic or tarp," Kurtz said. "Even bring inside potted plants to kind of protect them. It looks like there'll be a good chunk, about 4-5 hours Wednesday of below freezing temperatures. We have a low of 26 in St. Joe for Wednesday morning, so it's going to be really frosty out there."

The winter weather will not last long, as highs are forecast to rebound into the 60s late this week and close to 70 degrees by Sunday.

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

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA late-spring snow will move across the region overnight Monday and into Tuesday morning, while subfreezing temperatures are expected early Wednesday.A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 10 a.m. Tuesday, as a rain/snow mix&nbsp; is expected to start around midnight Monday night and transition to all snow by 1 or 2 a.m. Tuesday."That'll continue well into the morning hours," National Weather Service Pleasant Hill meteorologist Jonathan Kurtz said. "It'll probably taper off through 8 or 9 a.m. (Tuesday) with some lingering rain/snow mix through noon across the area."Kurtz says most models indicate between 1-3 inches of snow by noon Tuesday, with most accumulation happening on grassy or elevated surfaces."The main impacts from this might be some slushy roads there during the morning commute hours," he said. "I don't think we'll see much in the way of icing on the roads, but could be some slick spots out there with slush on the roads."A snow event in late April isn't super common, but it's also not unheard of in this part of the country, according to Kurtz."We're subject to winter weather to the end of April or even early May," he pointed out. "Not out of the realm of possibility. It's kind of a late little spring burst of snow before we get out of the spring time frame."Highs on Tuesday will rise into the mid-to-upper 40s, but lows on Tuesday and Wednesday night will be unseasonably cool and drop into the mid-to-upper-20s.That has prompted a Freeze Warning, which runs from 10 p.m. Tuesday to 9 a.m. Wednesday. Kurtz says any sensitive vegetation could be killed if left unprotected."The best thing you can do is cover up your plants with plastic or tarp," Kurtz said. "Even bring inside potted plants to kind of protect them. It looks like there'll be a good chunk, about 4-5 hours Wednesday of below freezing temperatures. We have a low of 26 in St. Joe for Wednesday morning, so it's going to be really frosty out there."The winter weather will not last long, as highs are forecast to rebound into the 60s late this week and close to 70 degrees by Sunday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Winter is back after today, so enjoy whatever Monday gives you. We have some light snow moving in tonight, after midnight, but moving out around or perhaps before noon on Tuesday. Also take care of those sensitive plants for Wednesday, as temperatures will be below freezing. <a href="https://t.co/07R6NBfvun">pic.twitter.com/07R6NBfvun</a>&mdash; NWS Kansas City (@NWSKansasCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSKansasCity/status/1384093356943241220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Snow, subfreezing temperatures to impact the region Tuesday and Wednesday

The double-decker bridge on I-229 in St. Joseph will be closed between U.S. 36 and Highland Avenue from Monday through Friday this week, as it undergoes routine maintenance and inspection.

Maintenance crews will complete pavement repairs and work on the bridge lighting. Multiple crews will be working at the same time to take advantage of the closure and maximize the amount of work accomplished, according to Missouri Department of Transportation Engineer Chris Redline.

"The main reason for closing the bridge is to do the in depth inspection on it," Redline said. "While we're in there, we also do all of the maintenance that needs to be done so we can get everything done under one lane closure and minimize inconvenience to drivers."

All work is weather-permitting, and schedules are subject to change. Motorists will need to seek an alternate route during the closure.

"It's safer for the public and us to close it down for a few days," said Redline. "Just get in, get it done and get out."

The double-decker bridge in St. Joseph was completed in 1986. It's estimated that 17,000 vehicles drive on it daily. MoDOT is considering at alternative routes to the double-decker bridge and will present those alternatives to the city later this summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618827578793.jpeg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe double-decker bridge on I-229 in St. Joseph will be closed between U.S. 36 and Highland Avenue from Monday through Friday this week, as it undergoes routine maintenance and inspection.Maintenance crews will complete pavement repairs and work on the bridge lighting. Multiple crews will be working at the same time to take advantage of the closure and maximize the amount of work accomplished, according to Missouri Department of Transportation Engineer Chris Redline."The main reason for closing the bridge is to do the in depth inspection on it," Redline said. "While we're in there, we also do all of the maintenance that needs to be done so we can get everything done under one lane closure and minimize inconvenience to drivers."All work is weather-permitting, and schedules are subject to change. Motorists will need to seek an alternate route during the closure."It's safer for the public and us to close it down for a few days," said Redline. "Just get in, get it done and get out."The double-decker bridge in St. Joseph was completed in 1986. It's estimated that 17,000 vehicles drive on it daily. MoDOT is considering at alternative routes to the double-decker bridge and will present those alternatives to the city later this summer.

Double-decker bridge on I-229 in St. Joseph to be closed this week for maintenance 

Mosaic Life Care says it is monitoring the coronavirus
pandemic, even as the number of new cases and hospitalizations have fallen
drastically.

It is especially monitoring variants of COVID-19.

Mosaic Chief Medical Officer Dr. Davin Turner says state
officials have informed Mosaic all four variants have been detected in
Missouri.

“They have seen the four different variants in the state in
very small numbers, but the state continues to monitor,” Turner tells reporters
during a news conference.

The Centers for Disease Control reports four variants, one
first discovered in the United Kingdom, one in South Africa, one in Brazil, and
the fourth in California.

Mosaic announced on Friday it had no COVID-19 patients in its
system for 48 hours; none in St. Joseph, none in Maryville, and none in Albany.

The St. Joseph Health Department late Friday afternoon
reported it had recorded no new cases of the coronavirus in Buchanan County.
The health department does not report during the weekend.

Andrew County also reported no new cases.

Buchanan County has recorded a total of 10,302 COVID-19 cases
since the pandemic began, resulting in 180 deaths. Andrew County has reported a
total of 2,041 cases with 21 deaths. Doniphan County, Kansas has reported a
total of 965 cases.

St. Joseph health officials report 15,560 Buchanan County
residents have initiated their coronavirus vaccination with 10,440 completing
both the first and second shot of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for a
vaccination rate of 17.8%, lagging behind the state rate of 33.3%.

Mosaic Life Care is winding down its COVID-19 vaccination
clinic in the old Gordman’s store at East Hills Mall, but officials assure the
public there will continue to be access to vaccines.

Turner says that though the clinic at East Hills Mall will no
longer be giving the first dose of the vaccine, it will complete the two-dose
protocol for every patient. He says those who haven’t received any vaccine will
have an opportunity to get vaccinated at one of Mosaic’s regular clinics.

“So, they will have access to vaccine,” Turner says, adding sign-ups
at East Hills clinic have dropped so low they can be accommodated in the
regular clinics. He urges residents to sign up at the Mosaic clinics. “If you
go on and sign up, basically you’re signing up and you’re going to get it the
same week, if not the very next day.”

Turner says Mosaic could reconsider its decision to close the
clinic if the community sees a spike in COVID-19 cases.

Turner does worry the decision to suspend use of the Johnson
and Johnson coronavirus vaccine will undermine faith in the vaccination
process. Turner says he understands the CDC wants to be cautious in wake of
allegations those who received the Johnson and Johnson vaccine suffered blood
clots.

“However, there have been millions and millions and millions,
tens of millions of doses, of these vaccines given whether it be J&amp;J, whether
it be Pfizer or whether it be Moderna. And there have been very, very, very few
severe adverse events,” according to Turner.

Turner says most people who have received the coronavirus
vaccine only have mild adverse reactions.

Mosaic will be closing its clinic at East Hills Mall once
everyone who received their first shot there can get their second.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618845753286.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Life Care is now only giving the 2nd COVID-19 vaccination dose at its clinic in the old Gordman's store at East Hills Mall./Photo by Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Life Care is now only giving the 2nd COVID-19 vaccination dose at its clinic in the old Gordman's store at East Hills Mall./Photo by Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care says it is monitoring the coronavirus
pandemic, even as the number of new cases and hospitalizations have fallen
drastically.It is especially monitoring variants of COVID-19.Mosaic Chief Medical Officer Dr. Davin Turner says state
officials have informed Mosaic all four variants have been detected in
Missouri.“They have seen the four different variants in the state in
very small numbers, but the state continues to monitor,” Turner tells reporters
during a news conference.The Centers for Disease Control reports four variants, one
first discovered in the United Kingdom, one in South Africa, one in Brazil, and
the fourth in California.Mosaic announced on Friday it had no COVID-19 patients in its
system for 48 hours; none in St. Joseph, none in Maryville, and none in Albany.The St. Joseph Health Department late Friday afternoon
reported it had recorded no new cases of the coronavirus in Buchanan County.
The health department does not report during the weekend.Andrew County also reported no new cases.Buchanan County has recorded a total of 10,302 COVID-19 cases
since the pandemic began, resulting in 180 deaths. Andrew County has reported a
total of 2,041 cases with 21 deaths. Doniphan County, Kansas has reported a
total of 965 cases.St. Joseph health officials report 15,560 Buchanan County
residents have initiated their coronavirus vaccination with 10,440 completing
both the first and second shot of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for a
vaccination rate of 17.8%, lagging behind the state rate of 33.3%.Mosaic Life Care is winding down its COVID-19 vaccination
clinic in the old Gordman’s store at East Hills Mall, but officials assure the
public there will continue to be access to vaccines.Turner says that though the clinic at East Hills Mall will no
longer be giving the first dose of the vaccine, it will complete the two-dose
protocol for every patient. He says those who haven’t received any vaccine will
have an opportunity to get vaccinated at one of Mosaic’s regular clinics.“So, they will have access to vaccine,” Turner says, adding sign-ups
at East Hills clinic have dropped so low they can be accommodated in the
regular clinics. He urges residents to sign up at the Mosaic clinics. “If you
go on and sign up, basically you’re signing up and you’re going to get it the
same week, if not the very next day.”Turner says Mosaic could reconsider its decision to close the
clinic if the community sees a spike in COVID-19 cases.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618845851027.jpeg" alt="Photo by Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>Turner does worry the decision to suspend use of the Johnson
and Johnson coronavirus vaccine will undermine faith in the vaccination
process. Turner says he understands the CDC wants to be cautious in wake of
allegations those who received the Johnson and Johnson vaccine suffered blood
clots.“However, there have been millions and millions and millions,
tens of millions of doses, of these vaccines given whether it be J&amp;J, whether
it be Pfizer or whether it be Moderna. And there have been very, very, very few
severe adverse events,” according to Turner.Turner says most people who have received the coronavirus
vaccine only have mild adverse reactions.Mosaic will be closing its clinic at East Hills Mall once
everyone who received their first shot there can get their second.

Mosaic keeps eye on virus even as numbers drop drastically

Doniphan County, Kansas has its next Moderna vaccine clinic scheduled for April 28th, with the booster dose scheduled for May 26th. 

The Doniphan County Health Department is hosting the clinic from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the Health Department building in Troy.

Doniphan County Health Department Administrator Sheryl Pierce says the vaccine is available for all adults. 

"We really encourage anybody 18 years of age or older to please come to the health department and get their vaccine," Pierce tells St. Joseph Post.

Doniphan County Health Administrator Sheryl Pierce says people seeking to get the vaccine must sign up for a time. 

"We are signing them up for times. It is not just a walk-in clinic. We'll be doing them sometime between nine and four," says Pierce. 

Only people 18 years and older can get the Moderna vaccine. 

Pierce says there is another option for sixteen and seventeen-year-olds to get vaccinated.

"They can call and we'll put them on a list and if we get enough interest in that, we could possibly get some Pfizer vaccines," says Pierce. 

Pierce says to call as soon as possible to get on the list. She says for anyone 18 years and older, call now to get registered for the Moderna vaccine clinic next week. 

By WHITNEE ICE St. Joseph PostDoniphan County, Kansas has its next Moderna vaccine clinic scheduled for April 28th, with the booster dose scheduled for May 26th. The Doniphan County Health Department is hosting the clinic from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the Health Department building in Troy.Doniphan County Health Department Administrator Sheryl Pierce says the vaccine is available for all adults. "We really encourage anybody 18 years of age or older to please come to the health department and get their vaccine," Pierce tells St. Joseph Post.Doniphan County Health Administrator Sheryl Pierce says people seeking to get the vaccine must sign up for a time. "We are signing them up for times. It is not just a walk-in clinic. We'll be doing them sometime between nine and four," says Pierce. Only people 18 years and older can get the Moderna vaccine. Pierce says there is another option for sixteen and seventeen-year-olds to get vaccinated."They can call and we'll put them on a list and if we get enough interest in that, we could possibly get some Pfizer vaccines," says Pierce. Pierce says to call as soon as possible to get on the list. She says for anyone 18 years and older, call now to get registered for the Moderna vaccine clinic next week.

Doniphan County, Kansas hosts a vaccine clinic next week

On the heels of Mosaic Life Care announcing it had no COVID-19
patients being treated in its system, St. Joseph health officials report no new
cases of the coronavirus in Buchanan County.

Mosaic Life Care reported on Friday it was treating no
COVID-19 patients in St. Joseph, Maryville, or Albany.

St. Joseph health officials reported on Friday there had not been
any new cases of the coronavirus reported in Buchanan County. The St. Joseph
Health Department does not issue reports during the weekend.

Andrew County also reported no new cases of COVID-19 on its
dashboard.

Buchanan County has reported 10,302 cases of coronavirus since
the pandemic began, resulting in 180 deaths. Andrew County has reported 2,041
total cases with 21 deaths. Doniphan County, Kansas has reported a total of 965
cases.

Missouri health officials report 496,600 total cases of
COVID-19 in the state, with 8,635 deaths since the pandemic began. Kansas reports
305,861 total cases and 4,953 coronavirus-related deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostOn the heels of Mosaic Life Care announcing it had no COVID-19
patients being treated in its system, St. Joseph health officials report no new
cases of the coronavirus in Buchanan County.Mosaic Life Care reported on Friday it was treating no
COVID-19 patients in St. Joseph, Maryville, or Albany.St. Joseph health officials reported on Friday there had not been
any new cases of the coronavirus reported in Buchanan County. The St. Joseph
Health Department does not issue reports during the weekend.Andrew County also reported no new cases of COVID-19 on its
dashboard.Buchanan County has reported 10,302 cases of coronavirus since
the pandemic began, resulting in 180 deaths. Andrew County has reported 2,041
total cases with 21 deaths. Doniphan County, Kansas has reported a total of 965
cases.Missouri health officials report 496,600 total cases of
COVID-19 in the state, with 8,635 deaths since the pandemic began. Kansas reports
305,861 total cases and 4,953 coronavirus-related deaths.

St. Joseph reports no new COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County

HARRISON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 8:30p.m. Sunday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Chrysler Town and Country driven by Garrett S. Guy, 18, Eagleville, was southbound on West 210 Avenue four miles north of Eagleville.&nbsp;

The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The van traveled off the road and struck a tree.

A private vehicle transported Guy and a passenger Nicholas R. Phelps, 18, Lamoni, IA., to Harrison County Community Hospital. They were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 8:30p.m. Sunday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Chrysler Town and Country driven by Garrett S. Guy, 18, Eagleville, was southbound on West 210 Avenue four miles north of Eagleville.&nbsp; The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The van traveled off the road and struck a tree.A private vehicle transported Guy and a passenger Nicholas R. Phelps, 18, Lamoni, IA., to Harrison County Community Hospital. They were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

2 Missouri teens hospitalized after van strikes a tree

NODAWAY COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Hyundai Sonata driven by Constance D. Terry, 21, Quitman, was eastbound on MO 46 ten miles west of Maryville.

The vehicle crested a hill and observed a 1998 John Deere 7210 driven by Brody D. Beason, 20, Skidmore, at the bottom of the hill. Terry applied the brakes, the Hyundai began to skid and rear-ended the John Deere.

Lifenet transported Terry to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph.&nbsp; Beason was not injured. Terry was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

NODAWAY COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Saturday in Nodaway County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Hyundai Sonata driven by Constance D. Terry, 21, Quitman, was eastbound on MO 46 ten miles west of Maryville.The vehicle crested a hill and observed a 1998 John Deere 7210 driven by Brody D. Beason, 20, Skidmore, at the bottom of the hill. Terry applied the brakes, the Hyundai began to skid and rear-ended the John Deere.Lifenet transported Terry to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph.&nbsp; Beason was not injured. Terry was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Mo. woman airlifted to hospital after car rear-ends tractor

ATCHISON, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas district has decided to ditch its “Redmen” and “Braves” mascots after public opinion shifted. 

The Atchison school board approved the change unanimously this past week. 

It was a reversal from 2018 when the board voted to keep the “Redmen” mascot for the district’s high school and the “Braves” mascot for the middle school. Board member Carrie Sowers said she changed her vote because the community “spoke loud and clear." 

Sowers said the board heard considerable support in 2018 for keeping Native American-themed mascots. But this time, all nine people who addressed the matter at a public input session asked the board to do away with the mascots.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618698354961.png" alt="Photo courtesy Atchison High School" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Atchison High School</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas district has decided to ditch its “Redmen” and “Braves” mascots after public opinion shifted. The Atchison school board approved the change unanimously this past week. It was a reversal from 2018 when the board voted to keep the “Redmen” mascot for the district’s high school and the “Braves” mascot for the middle school. Board member Carrie Sowers said she changed her vote because the community “spoke loud and clear." Sowers said the board heard considerable support in 2018 for keeping Native American-themed mascots. But this time, all nine people who addressed the matter at a public input session asked the board to do away with the mascots.

Atchison schools ditch Native American mascots

ANDREW COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Friday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Freightliner semi driven by Nicholas Doe, 41, Des Moines, IA., was northbound on Interstate 29 three miles north of Savannah.

The semi traveled off the west side of the road, through the median and onto south Interstate 29. The semi overturned onto the drivers side, slid and sideswiped a 2018 Peterbilt semi driven by Byron K. James, 45, DeSoto.

Andrew County EMS transported a passenger in the Freightliner Brandon L. Winters, 38, Carollton, GA., to Mosaic Life Care.&nbsp; The drivers were released at the scene. Winters was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Friday in Andrew County. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Freightliner semi driven by Nicholas Doe, 41, Des Moines, IA., was northbound on Interstate 29 three miles north of Savannah.The semi traveled off the west side of the road, through the median and onto south Interstate 29. The semi overturned onto the drivers side, slid and sideswiped a 2018 Peterbilt semi driven by Byron K. James, 45, DeSoto.Andrew County EMS transported a passenger in the Freightliner Brandon L. Winters, 38, Carollton, GA., to Mosaic Life Care.&nbsp; The drivers were released at the scene. Winters was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Man hospitalized after semi overturns in Andrew County

ATCHISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Friday in Atchison.

&nbsp;A bicycle ridden by Xavier Quintois, 17, Atchison, was southbound on the sidewalk on the east side of 12th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

The bicycle didn't stop at Kansas Avenue and&nbsp; entered the intersection.&nbsp; An eastbound 2013 Honda CRV driven by Carol Smith of Atchison struck the bicycle.&nbsp;&nbsp;

EMS transported Quintois to Mosaic Medical Center in St. Joseph for treatment, according to Wilson.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

ATCHISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Friday in Atchison.&nbsp;A bicycle ridden by Xavier Quintois, 17, Atchison, was southbound on the sidewalk on the east side of 12th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.The bicycle didn't stop at Kansas Avenue and&nbsp; entered the intersection.&nbsp; An eastbound 2013 Honda CRV driven by Carol Smith of Atchison struck the bicycle.&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS transported Quintois to Mosaic Medical Center in St. Joseph for treatment, according to Wilson.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

SUV strikes teen on bicycle in Atchison

It is a dance performance, but much more than that.

The “Chance 2 Dance” benefit performance Saturday evening at
the Missouri Theater will raise money for the Voices of Courage Child Advocacy
Center.

Marla Heeler, who owns Dance Arts Center, says the benefit
attracts dance studios from throughout the region. She says it’s a way for kids
to help kids.

“They come, they perform lots of different fun dances and it’s
kind of a fun way for kids to get to meet other dancers and perform for people
without necessarily having a competitive atmosphere like they have sometimes now
a days at dance competitions,” Heeler says during a stint on the KFEQ Hotline.

Voices of Courage Executive Director Melissa Birdsell says the
performance goes beyond just raising money.

“Fundraising is great because it also gets our message out
there,” Birdsell says. “We do have some grants and some state funding that
helps us along, but it’s certainly not enough to cover nine counties and all
the children that we need to help. So, fundraising is really important, because
it gets out name out there and it gets our mission out there so that people
understand there is help for kids.”

Voice of Courage serves nine counties, providing counseling
for children as well as help navigating the legal system.

The “Chance 2 Dance” benefit performance begins at 7 p.m.
Saturday night at the Missouri Theater.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618595836353.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Dance Arts Center" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Dance Arts Center</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostIt is a dance performance, but much more than that.The “Chance 2 Dance” benefit performance Saturday evening at
the Missouri Theater will raise money for the Voices of Courage Child Advocacy
Center.Marla Heeler, who owns Dance Arts Center, says the benefit
attracts dance studios from throughout the region. She says it’s a way for kids
to help kids.“They come, they perform lots of different fun dances and it’s
kind of a fun way for kids to get to meet other dancers and perform for people
without necessarily having a competitive atmosphere like they have sometimes now
a days at dance competitions,” Heeler says during a stint on the KFEQ Hotline.Voices of Courage Executive Director Melissa Birdsell says the
performance goes beyond just raising money.“Fundraising is great because it also gets our message out
there,” Birdsell says. “We do have some grants and some state funding that
helps us along, but it’s certainly not enough to cover nine counties and all
the children that we need to help. So, fundraising is really important, because
it gets out name out there and it gets our mission out there so that people
understand there is help for kids.”Voice of Courage serves nine counties, providing counseling
for children as well as help navigating the legal system.The “Chance 2 Dance” benefit performance begins at 7 p.m.
Saturday night at the Missouri Theater.

Dance performance to benefit child advocacy center

A man is facing first-degree murder charges in the case of a woman found in a duffel bag near Facuett last year.

Buchanan County Prosecuting Attorney Ronald Holliday announced Friday that first-degree murder charges have been filed against 29-year-old Marcus Brooks.

Brooks is charged in the homicide of Ariel Starcher, who was found stuffed in a duffel bag last February on the side of Vincent Rd. in rural Buchanan County.

A medical autopsy revealed that she died from suffocation along with a fractured cervical vertebra.

This is the second suspect charged in Starcher's homicide. Prosecutors had previously charged 23-year-old Taylor Stoughton with second-degree murder in connection with the case.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA man is facing first-degree murder charges in the case of a woman found in a duffel bag near Facuett last year.Buchanan County Prosecuting Attorney Ronald Holliday announced Friday that first-degree murder charges have been filed against 29-year-old Marcus Brooks.Brooks is charged in the homicide of Ariel Starcher, who was found stuffed in a duffel bag last February on the side of Vincent Rd. in rural Buchanan County.A medical autopsy revealed that she died from suffocation along with a fractured cervical vertebra.This is the second suspect charged in Starcher's homicide. Prosecutors had previously charged 23-year-old Taylor Stoughton with second-degree murder in connection with the case.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618594174855.jpeg" alt="Ariel Starcher." />
 <figcaption>Ariel Starcher.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Man faces first-degree murder charge in death of Ariel Starcher

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary in Atchison and have made an arrest.

On Thursday, police arrested two 13-year-old boys in connection to the Tuesday evening burglary and theft at a residence in the 800 block Parallel, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Police released the boy to their parents.&nbsp; Wilson released no additional details.

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary in Atchison and have made an arrest.On Thursday, police arrested two 13-year-old boys in connection to the Tuesday evening burglary and theft at a residence in the 800 block Parallel, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Police released the boy to their parents.&nbsp; Wilson released no additional details.

Police: Two 13-year-olds arrested for home burglary

The City of St. Joseph has seen a steady rise in overdoses in the last few months. 

Buchanan County Director of EMS, Steve Groshong says he believes some of the street drugs in the community have been cut with Fentanyl. 

"We've had a couple overdoses that we found that were heroin overdoses with patients not breathing and the needle's still stuck in their arm," Groshong tells St. Joseph Post.

Groshong says oftentimes something tragic has already happened once EMS is called. 

To help with this crisis, there are proper ways to dispose of prescriptions you are no longer taking. 

Commander of the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office Drug Strike Force, Captian Shawn Collie says you can get ahold of the Drug Strike Force to dispose of prescriptions or you can take them to the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office.

"We have a 'Prescription Take Back' box within the lobby that's secured that people can come in 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and put prescriptions in," says Collie. 

Also, if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are treatment facilities across St. Joseph that are ready to help.

Co-CEO of Family Guidance Center Kristina Hannon says services are available to anyone through the Family Guidance Center.

"You do not have to have insurance. You do not have to have Medicaid or Medicare to come receive substance use treatment services," says Hannon. "Our services are often available at no cost."

Hannon says all you have to do is walk in, you don't even need an appointment. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618529667191.jpeg" alt="Flyer provided by St. Joseph officials" />
 <figcaption>Flyer provided by St. Joseph officials</figcaption>
 </figure>By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostThe City of St. Joseph has seen a steady rise in overdoses in the last few months. Buchanan County Director of EMS, Steve Groshong says he believes some of the street drugs in the community have been cut with Fentanyl. "We've had a couple overdoses that we found that were heroin overdoses with patients not breathing and the needle's still stuck in their arm," Groshong tells St. Joseph Post.Groshong says oftentimes something tragic has already happened once EMS is called. To help with this crisis, there are proper ways to dispose of prescriptions you are no longer taking. Commander of the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office Drug Strike Force, Captian Shawn Collie says you can get ahold of the Drug Strike Force to dispose of prescriptions or you can take them to the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office."We have a 'Prescription Take Back' box within the lobby that's secured that people can come in 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and put prescriptions in," says Collie. Also, if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are treatment facilities across St. Joseph that are ready to help.Co-CEO of Family Guidance Center Kristina Hannon says services are available to anyone through the Family Guidance Center."You do not have to have insurance. You do not have to have Medicaid or Medicare to come receive substance use treatment services," says Hannon. "Our services are often available at no cost."Hannon says all you have to do is walk in, you don't even need an appointment.

Opioid overdoses in St. Joseph are on the rise

SAVANNAH - Outgoing Savannah board president Stancy Bond arguably became the face of the Savage mascot debate.

The last big vote during her time as president was on the motion to retain the 'Savage' nickname, but remove the Native American imagery and symbolism associated with it.

Bond's motion passed narrowly 4-3 Tuesday. That very night, she stepped down as board president. Joseph Barbosa now takes the baton.

"I've lived and worked with these people in this community for all of my life," he said. "Savannah and Andrew County is home. To be able to work with some excellent leaders, and for them to put their trust in me, I'm truly humbled and honored."

Barbosa was one of the four board members who voted in favor of the mascot image change. In fact, he brought it up as a suggestion during the debate Tuesday, and Bond made that suggestion into a motion.

Barbosa, however, had proposed the idea of keeping the Savage name, but changing its imagery long before Tuesday's meeting.

"There's a decent amount of our constituents who I think thought this was an idea worth discussing," he said. "That's what compelled me to bring it forward. This is the third time in my lifetime that I remember having this debate. I'd like our community to get back to focusing on educating our kids and making this a great place to raise a family."

Tuesday's vote was a long time coming, and it ended a 10-month long, and likely a years long, debate. The work doesn't stop there.

When Savannah's mascot committee presented their research to the school board in late March, they estimated it could cost up to $500,000 to remove the Savage imagery from uniforms, playing surfaces and other places throughout campus.

It could be a years-long process, and the imagery will be phased out overtime. But Barbosa, along with the entire board and administration, remain committed to preserving and honoring the history behind the Savage mascot.

"We're still the Savannah Savages," Barbosa said. "But, what emblem should we put on it? There's some beautiful art work in all of our schools that has that imagery. We want to preserve that, because our students worked hard to create that, and it's a part of our past. So, it's going to be a process, but I think that helps preserve our identity.

"I heard from constituents that they felt like this was an attack on their identity, and I did not want that to be the case. This is a moment where we preserve who we are, our history and a big piece of our town."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618368461365.jpeg" alt="Newly appointed Savannah Board of Education president Joseph Barbosa addresses the room after being appointed president and after a vote to change the Savannah mascot imagery Tuesday./Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Newly appointed Savannah Board of Education president Joseph Barbosa addresses the room after being appointed president and after a vote to change the Savannah mascot imagery Tuesday./Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSAVANNAH - Outgoing Savannah board president Stancy Bond arguably became the face of the Savage mascot debate.The last big vote during her time as president was on the motion to retain the 'Savage' nickname, but remove the Native American imagery and symbolism associated with it.Bond's motion passed narrowly 4-3 Tuesday. That very night, she stepped down as board president. Joseph Barbosa now takes the baton."I've lived and worked with these people in this community for all of my life," he said. "Savannah and Andrew County is home. To be able to work with some excellent leaders, and for them to put their trust in me, I'm truly humbled and honored."Barbosa was one of the four board members who voted in favor of the mascot image change. In fact, he brought it up as a suggestion during the debate Tuesday, and Bond made that suggestion into a motion.Barbosa, however, had proposed the idea of keeping the Savage name, but changing its imagery long before Tuesday's meeting."There's a decent amount of our constituents who I think thought this was an idea worth discussing," he said. "That's what compelled me to bring it forward. This is the third time in my lifetime that I remember having this debate. I'd like our community to get back to focusing on educating our kids and making this a great place to raise a family."Tuesday's vote was a long time coming, and it ended a 10-month long, and likely a years long, debate. The work doesn't stop there.When Savannah's mascot committee presented their research to the school board in late March, they estimated it could cost up to $500,000 to remove the Savage imagery from uniforms, playing surfaces and other places throughout campus.It could be a years-long process, and the imagery will be phased out overtime. But Barbosa, along with the entire board and administration, remain committed to preserving and honoring the history behind the Savage mascot."We're still the Savannah Savages," Barbosa said. "But, what emblem should we put on it? There's some beautiful art work in all of our schools that has that imagery. We want to preserve that, because our students worked hard to create that, and it's a part of our past. So, it's going to be a process, but I think that helps preserve our identity."I heard from constituents that they felt like this was an attack on their identity, and I did not want that to be the case. This is a moment where we preserve who we are, our history and a big piece of our town."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Barbosa faces mascot change as he takes over as Savannah's new board president

St. Joseph health officials report eight new COVID-19 cases in
Buchanan County Thursday while Mosaic Life Care reports it has no coronavirus patients
being treated in its system.

Mosaic made a Facebook post disclosing that after 383 days it
had no inpatients with COVID-19 in its system.

Mosaic stated in the Facebook post, “While the pandemic is
still a continued reality for everyone, for today, for this moment, we can take
a pause to celebrate and heal a bit from this journey.”

Buchanan County has reported a total of 10,302
COVID-19 cases since the pandemic began.

Andrew County reports only one new COVID-19 case, bringing its
total to 2,040.

Doniphan County, Kansas reports a total of 964 cases.

Missouri health officials report a total of 495,776
cases, resulting in 8,634 deaths.

Kansas health officials report a total of 305,320
cases with 4,944 coronavirus-related deaths.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph health officials report eight new COVID-19 cases in
Buchanan County Thursday while Mosaic Life Care reports it has no coronavirus patients
being treated in its system.Mosaic made a Facebook post disclosing that after 383 days it
had no inpatients with COVID-19 in its system.Mosaic stated in the Facebook post, “While the pandemic is
still a continued reality for everyone, for today, for this moment, we can take
a pause to celebrate and heal a bit from this journey.”Buchanan County has reported a total of 10,302
COVID-19 cases since the pandemic began.Andrew County reports only one new COVID-19 case, bringing its
total to 2,040.Doniphan County, Kansas reports a total of 964 cases.Missouri health officials report a total of 495,776
cases, resulting in 8,634 deaths.Kansas health officials report a total of 305,320
cases with 4,944 coronavirus-related deaths.

Mosaic Life Care reports ZERO coronavirus patients in its system

A new fire station is coming to St. Joseph.

The St. Joseph Fire Department had a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction Thursday.

The new station will be replacing the current one at 33rd Street and Mitchell Avenue with the new location at Mitchell Avenue and Lenard Road.

St. Joseph Fire Chief Mike Dalsing says this will be the second station the city has on the east side of the Belt Highway.

"It's extremely important in terms of time," Dalsing tells St. Joseph Post. "65% of our calls are medical calls, so we're going to be able to support the university, Deer Park, the two industrial parks out here, so we're pretty excited."

Dalsing says the dirt work just started after being delayed by recent rain.

"Usually takes about three years total to get a station up," says Dalsing. "We've been working on it for two years so we're expecting about this time next year that they will be really close to completion."

Dalsing notes that the basement of the new fire station will have an Emergency Operation Center. He hopes the fire station will be finished and ready to be put to use this time next year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618527484292.jpeg" alt="Photo by Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostA new fire station is coming to St. Joseph.The St. Joseph Fire Department had a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction Thursday.The new station will be replacing the current one at 33rd Street and Mitchell Avenue with the new location at Mitchell Avenue and Lenard Road.St. Joseph Fire Chief Mike Dalsing says this will be the second station the city has on the east side of the Belt Highway."It's extremely important in terms of time," Dalsing tells St. Joseph Post. "65% of our calls are medical calls, so we're going to be able to support the university, Deer Park, the two industrial parks out here, so we're pretty excited."Dalsing says the dirt work just started after being delayed by recent rain."Usually takes about three years total to get a station up," says Dalsing. "We've been working on it for two years so we're expecting about this time next year that they will be really close to completion."Dalsing notes that the basement of the new fire station will have an Emergency Operation Center. He hopes the fire station will be finished and ready to be put to use this time next year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618527624560.jpeg" alt="Photo by Whitnee Ice" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Whitnee Ice</figcaption>
 </figure>

St. Joseph Fire Department breaks ground on new station Thursday

St. Joseph has taken a few steps to preserve its historic
structures.

St. Joseph Historic Preservation Planner Kim Schutte hopes to
help the city take a few steps more.

Schutte says whenever a community loses an historic structure,
it loses a little piece of itself. Schutte says St. Joseph is full of historic
homes and businesses.

“We tend to take it all for granted,” Schutte tells host Barry
Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “We don’t understand that our stock of historic architecture
could stand up against Charleston, South Carolina for example. We are on that
level, but we take it for granted and when you take things for granted often you
don’t take as good of care them as you should.”

Charleston has made a concerted effort to renovate its historic
buildings and has even turned the revitalization into a tourist attraction.

Schutte says it takes effort and money to not just preserve,
but renovate historic buildings, especially former businesses.

“When you’re looking at something like, for example, the German-American
bank building, that Mosaic (Life Care) did such a beautiful job with downtown,
it takes something like Mosaic to take on a building of that scope,” Schutte says.
“Finding a use for a building that has that big of a footprint is often a
challenge.”

St. Joseph residents sometimes have a more difficult time
appreciating the historic nature of the city than outsiders. Or, at least,
that’s the conclusion of Schutte, who has seen the reaction of those from other
cities when they survey the historic buildings in St. Joseph.

“Now, it’s always interesting to me when outsiders, people
from even Kansas City come to town, and they are blown away, I mean they just can’t
believe what it is they’re seeing and they can’t believe that we’re letting it
fall down and that we’re not using it and more excited about it,” Schutte says.

Schutte works with the <a href="https://www.stjoemo.info/343/Landmark-Commission">Landmark Commission</a> on preserving St.
Joseph’s historic structures.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618497922400.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph has taken a few steps to preserve its historic
structures.St. Joseph Historic Preservation Planner Kim Schutte hopes to
help the city take a few steps more.Schutte says whenever a community loses an historic structure,
it loses a little piece of itself. Schutte says St. Joseph is full of historic
homes and businesses.“We tend to take it all for granted,” Schutte tells host Barry
Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “We don’t understand that our stock of historic architecture
could stand up against Charleston, South Carolina for example. We are on that
level, but we take it for granted and when you take things for granted often you
don’t take as good of care them as you should.”Charleston has made a concerted effort to renovate its historic
buildings and has even turned the revitalization into a tourist attraction.Schutte says it takes effort and money to not just preserve,
but renovate historic buildings, especially former businesses.“When you’re looking at something like, for example, the German-American
bank building, that Mosaic (Life Care) did such a beautiful job with downtown,
it takes something like Mosaic to take on a building of that scope,” Schutte says.
“Finding a use for a building that has that big of a footprint is often a
challenge.”St. Joseph residents sometimes have a more difficult time
appreciating the historic nature of the city than outsiders. Or, at least,
that’s the conclusion of Schutte, who has seen the reaction of those from other
cities when they survey the historic buildings in St. Joseph.“Now, it’s always interesting to me when outsiders, people
from even Kansas City come to town, and they are blown away, I mean they just can’t
believe what it is they’re seeing and they can’t believe that we’re letting it
fall down and that we’re not using it and more excited about it,” Schutte says.Schutte works with the <a href="https://www.stjoemo.info/343/Landmark-Commission">Landmark Commission</a> on preserving St.
Joseph’s historic structures.

Official urges St. Joseph to preserve, renovate its historic structures

ATCHISON COUNTY —The search for a 79-year-old man missing from Atchison ended Thursday morning.

Authorities located the body of Garland Blanton during the search in rural Doniphan County. He was deceased, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Mr. Blanton's death is considered to be the result of natural causes while he was mushroom hunting, according to Wilson.

The Kansas Highway Patrol assisted in the search for Garland Blanton Thursday morning with the use of a helicopter and the Kansas Department of  Wildlife and Parks assisted in the search with the use of K-9. 

 Interviews with family members by Atchison Police determined that Mr. Blanton was a mushroom hunter and was known to mushroom hunt in certain areas of Doniphan County.

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are searching for a missing 79-year-old man Atchison man.

 Garland Blanton was last seen mid morning on Tuesday walking out of the apartment complex at 807 Santa Fe in Atchison where he resides, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

 His silver Mitsubishi Montero SUV has been found in rural Doniphan County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618496951023.png" alt="Garland Blanton-photo courtesy Atchison Police" />
 <figcaption>Garland Blanton-photo courtesy Atchison Police</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —The search for a 79-year-old man missing from Atchison ended Thursday morning.Authorities located the body of Garland Blanton during the search in rural Doniphan County. He was deceased, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.Mr. Blanton's death is considered to be the result of natural causes while he was mushroom hunting, according to Wilson.The Kansas Highway Patrol assisted in the search for Garland Blanton Thursday morning with the use of a helicopter and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks assisted in the search with the use of K-9. Interviews with family members by Atchison Police determined that Mr. Blanton was a mushroom hunter and was known to mushroom hunt in certain areas of Doniphan County.-------ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are searching for a missing 79-year-old man Atchison man. Garland Blanton was last seen mid morning on Tuesday walking out of the apartment complex at 807 Santa Fe in Atchison where he resides, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. His silver Mitsubishi Montero SUV has been found in rural Doniphan County.

Update: Searchers find body of missing Atchison man 

The St. Joseph area has seen a recent jump in opioid overdoses in the last few months. 

Co-CEO of Family Guidance Center Kristina Hannon says this has happened in other areas of the state as well and the concern was the Kansas City Northland area drugs would start moving towards Northwest Missouri. 

"The kind of concern was, it would not take those drugs that were there long to travel up I-29 and get here and I think that's part of what we're seeing," Hannon tells St. Joseph Post.

Hannon adds that in the month of March there were over 60 overdoses locally, which is more than twice the total number of overdoses the year before.&nbsp;

Hannon says the increase in overdoses is not related to social isolation and the COVID pandemic. 

"I really think that what's driving the current increase is that the drugs that are here and available now contain much more dangerous Opioids," says Hannon.

Buchanan County Director of EMS, Steve Groshong agrees and says the increase in overdoses is also not specific to teens but it's affecting all age groups. 

"We have had some young people but it seems like we always have some young people so I don't know if it's any more involving the younger people or just as a whole subset of the population that're overdosing," says Groshong. 

Groshong says drug addiction often starts with people getting medication for pain treatment. He notes that Narcan doesn't help all types of overdoses, only opioid overdoses.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618443559622.png" alt="Flyer provided by St. Joseph officials" />
 <figcaption>Flyer provided by St. Joseph officials</figcaption>
 </figure>By WHITNEE ICE St. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph area has seen a recent jump in opioid overdoses in the last few months. Co-CEO of Family Guidance Center Kristina Hannon says this has happened in other areas of the state as well and the concern was the Kansas City Northland area drugs would start moving towards Northwest Missouri. "The kind of concern was, it would not take those drugs that were there long to travel up I-29 and get here and I think that's part of what we're seeing," Hannon tells St. Joseph Post.Hannon adds that in the month of March there were over 60 overdoses locally, which is more than twice the total number of overdoses the year before.&nbsp;Hannon says the increase in overdoses is not related to social isolation and the COVID pandemic. "I really think that what's driving the current increase is that the drugs that are here and available now contain much more dangerous Opioids," says Hannon.Buchanan County Director of EMS, Steve Groshong agrees and says the increase in overdoses is also not specific to teens but it's affecting all age groups. "We have had some young people but it seems like we always have some young people so I don't know if it's any more involving the younger people or just as a whole subset of the population that're overdosing," says Groshong. Groshong says drug addiction often starts with people getting medication for pain treatment. He notes that Narcan doesn't help all types of overdoses, only opioid overdoses.

Opioid crisis growing in St. Joseph

An economic relief program approved by Congress that has been
popular with small business owners also can be used by farmers.

Congress has extended the deadline to apply for the Paycheck
Protection Program to the end of May.

“It’s important for people to know that despite the name of
it, you do not have to have employees in order to apply and farmers can apply,”
according to Regional Director Rebecca Lobina with the Northwest Missouri State
University Small Business Development Center during an appearance on the KFEQ
Hotline.

The Paycheck Protection Program, known as PPP, has been one of
the most popular of the programs initiated by Congress in response to the
recession triggered by the coronavirus pandemic. Congress renewed PPP in the
latest coronavirus relief and economic stimulus package it approved, extending
the program to the end of May.

Lobina says while small business owners have accessed the
program, farmers have been more hesitant to tap it.

Lobina recalls talking to a farmer about using the program.

“They were worried that they couldn’t because of some other
concerns that they had,” Lobina says. “They were worried about, like, what if
our credit is not good. It doesn’t matter. With the PPP, it doesn’t matter.”

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostAn economic relief program approved by Congress that has been
popular with small business owners also can be used by farmers.Congress has extended the deadline to apply for the Paycheck
Protection Program to the end of May.“It’s important for people to know that despite the name of
it, you do not have to have employees in order to apply and farmers can apply,”
according to Regional Director Rebecca Lobina with the Northwest Missouri State
University Small Business Development Center during an appearance on the KFEQ
Hotline.The Paycheck Protection Program, known as PPP, has been one of
the most popular of the programs initiated by Congress in response to the
recession triggered by the coronavirus pandemic. Congress renewed PPP in the
latest coronavirus relief and economic stimulus package it approved, extending
the program to the end of May.Lobina says while small business owners have accessed the
program, farmers have been more hesitant to tap it.Lobina recalls talking to a farmer about using the program.“They were worried that they couldn’t because of some other
concerns that they had,” Lobina says. “They were worried about, like, what if
our credit is not good. It doesn’t matter. With the PPP, it doesn’t matter.”Lobina points out PPP is based on gross receipts, not net. She
says farmers should use the Schedule F filed with their 2019 income taxes, Line
9 for their gross income.“So, it does not matter if you had employees. It does not
matter how well or bad you did in 2020,” Lobina says. “All that matters is that
there is a number on Line 9 that says you are operating, essentially, in 2019
and that’s it.”Lobina says too many farmers believe they do not qualify for
federal COVID-19 economic assistance. She says they qualify, even if they do
not have employees.

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