TARKIO - Missouri's northwesternmost county continues to be a statewide leader in the battle against COVID-19.

Atchison County has administered over 2,600 doses of vaccine in a county that's home to just over 5,200 people. In all, over 31% of the county's population has been vaccinated.

That vaccination rate ranks second among Missouri's 117 counties and municipalities, trailing only Joplin, which has vaccinated 31.4% of its 50,000 residents.

Atchison County Health Department Administrator Julie Livengood says team work, and a little luck, helped the county get off to a quicker start than some of its neighbors.

"We took some proactive steps early on," she said. "As soon as we could sign up to be a COVID vaccinator, we did. There were many health departments and hospitals that were awaiting vaccinator approval even in January. We were giving out vaccines in December already. I think we just got a good head start before everybody else."

Atchison County's vaccination rate remains well ahead of others in Region H, such as Buchanan (14.3 percent), DeKalb (16 percent) and Platte counties (15.8 percent).

The Region H team and Missouri National Guard never had a mass vaccine clinic in Atchison County, though Livengood says many residents went to clinics earlier this year in Mound City and Savannah to get vaccinated.

There were a couple of smaller-scale, independently run clinics in Tarkio, where more than 200 people got vaccinated each time. Another clinic is planned for April 12 at the Tarkio Activity Center, as all Missouri adults will be eligible for vaccination on April 9.

Atchison County's COVID numbers have stayed relatively low with 439 total cases and 13 fatalities reported since the start of the pandemic. There are only five active cases in the county and nobody is hospitalized locally with virus complications.

All of this was done without any county-wide mask mandate, and no city-wide mandates in towns like Rock Port or Tarkio.

"I felt like the county did a great job of taking care of each other," Livengood said. "People were wearing masks. You don't see it as much now, but when we were in the height of the pandemic, people were wearing their masks and listening to our recommendations. So, we didn't feel like we had to put out a mandate for it."

However, many local health departments continue to monitor the spread of a new COVID variant called B.1.1.7. which has been found in all 50 states, including in <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f69a3ab8-2cd1-4070-9200-e5d8449d5dc9">Shawnee County, Kansas</a>.

Livengood says Atchison County's positivity rate has ticked up slightly to 12.5 percent in recent days with four new cases reported last week and three more reported on Monday.

Livengood says the decline in testing is the main reason for the positivity rate going up, with only 30 or so tests being performed last week.

Still, with the overall rate of new cases and deaths down significantly both locally and statewide, and with more and more Missourians becoming eligible for the vaccine, Livengood is encouraged by the current trends, but still urges caution going forward.

"We're cautiously optimistic and we're very encouraged that things are looking better," she said. "But, you know, we still want to be a little bit cautious for awhile."

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

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostTARKIO - Missouri's northwesternmost county continues to be a statewide leader in the battle against COVID-19.Atchison County has administered over 2,600 doses of vaccine in a county that's home to just over 5,200 people. In all, over 31% of the county's population has been vaccinated.That vaccination rate ranks second among Missouri's 117 counties and municipalities, trailing only Joplin, which has vaccinated 31.4% of its 50,000 residents.Atchison County Health Department Administrator Julie Livengood says team work, and a little luck, helped the county get off to a quicker start than some of its neighbors."We took some proactive steps early on," she said. "As soon as we could sign up to be a COVID vaccinator, we did. There were many health departments and hospitals that were awaiting vaccinator approval even in January. We were giving out vaccines in December already. I think we just got a good head start before everybody else."Atchison County's vaccination rate remains well ahead of others in Region H, such as Buchanan (14.3 percent), DeKalb (16 percent) and Platte counties (15.8 percent).The Region H team and Missouri National Guard never had a mass vaccine clinic in Atchison County, though Livengood says many residents went to clinics earlier this year in Mound City and Savannah to get vaccinated.There were a couple of smaller-scale, independently run clinics in Tarkio, where more than 200 people got vaccinated each time. Another clinic is planned for April 12 at the Tarkio Activity Center, as all Missouri adults will be eligible for vaccination on April 9.Atchison County's COVID numbers have stayed relatively low with 439 total cases and 13 fatalities reported since the start of the pandemic. There are only five active cases in the county and nobody is hospitalized locally with virus complications.All of this was done without any county-wide mask mandate, and no city-wide mandates in towns like Rock Port or Tarkio."I felt like the county did a great job of taking care of each other," Livengood said. "People were wearing masks. You don't see it as much now, but when we were in the height of the pandemic, people were wearing their masks and listening to our recommendations. So, we didn't feel like we had to put out a mandate for it."However, many local health departments continue to monitor the spread of a new COVID variant called B.1.1.7. which has been found in all 50 states, including in <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f69a3ab8-2cd1-4070-9200-e5d8449d5dc9">Shawnee County, Kansas</a>.Livengood says Atchison County's positivity rate has ticked up slightly to 12.5 percent in recent days with four new cases reported last week and three more reported on Monday.Livengood says the decline in testing is the main reason for the positivity rate going up, with only 30 or so tests being performed last week.Still, with the overall rate of new cases and deaths down significantly both locally and statewide, and with more and more Missourians becoming eligible for the vaccine, Livengood is encouraged by the current trends, but still urges caution going forward."We're cautiously optimistic and we're very encouraged that things are looking better," she said. "But, you know, we still want to be a little bit cautious for awhile."<div><div id="fb-root"></div>
<script async defer crossorigin="anonymous" src="https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v10.0" nonce="AtuwwhNY"></script></div><div><div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=288583542656742&amp;id=110622070452891" data-width="500" data-show-text="true"><blockquote cite="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=288583542656742&amp;id=110622070452891" class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">COVID-19 CASES
There were 4 cases from 3/22/2021 – 3/28/2021.
1 female, 1 male ages 0-19
1 male age 30-39
1 male age...Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Atchison-County-Missouri-Health-Department-110622070452891/">Atchison County Missouri Health Department</a> on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=288583542656742&amp;id=110622070452891">Monday, March 29, 2021</a></blockquote></div></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Atchison County, Missouri maintains one of the state's highest vaccination rates

Mosaic Life Care encourages area residents to take advantage
of the mass vaccination clinic at East Hills Mall, before it closes.

Mosaic Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner, says the mass
vaccination site in the old Gordman’s store will not stay open forever. In
fact, it might be closing in the next couple of months as the number of people
signing up for COVID-19 vaccines drops.

“And when we see the number of folks signing up decline even
more, we will be looking at how do we transition that vaccination process to
those pharmacies that have vaccination available to them,” Turner tells
reporters during a news availability.

Turner says the clinic at East Hills has been running very
smoothly.

The vaccine is given to Missouri residents or those who work
in Missouri free of charge. It usually takes 25 minutes to go through the vaccination
process, which includes the 15-minute wait after the vaccine is given.

Turner says the clinic will close when vaccination sign ups
drop. He hopes more will take advantage of the clinic at East Hills.

“If you want your shot, you need to sign up, because again as
the numbers dwindle and the numbers have really substantially dropped off of folks
signing up to get the vaccine, we really want you to sign up so you can get
your vaccine,” Turner says.

Turner says Mosaic is watching the numbers closely to
determine when to close the clinic.&nbsp;
Missouri recently opened vaccinations to Phase 2 after going through all
three tiers of Phase 1. Phase 2 includes commercial facilities sector, critical
manufacturing, construction, financial services, and sector two of food and
agriculture among others. Turner expects the state to open vaccinations to all
Missourians soon, likely before the scheduled April 9th date.

A date will be chosen to provide the last of the first doses
at the East Hills Mall clinic. Once the clinic no longer gives first doses, it
will close within four to five weeks after everyone who received the first shot
of Pfizer of Moderna vaccine has time to get their second shot.

Turner urges residents not to put it off. 

“You have the ability to sign up now,” Turner points out. “Even
if your tier is not open. So, we encourage those folks to sign up so that we
know what volume we’re going to have.”

Residents can click <a href="https://www.mymlc.com/General/coronavirus-covid-19/covid-19-vaccine-registration/">here</a> for the Mosaic Life Care website and
register.

Mosaic has administered the first dose of vaccine to 15,508
residents at the St. Joseph site with 7,753 residents receiving their second
shot as of last week. Mosaic has given 3,501 first doses at its Maryville
location as of last week with 2,317 receiving their second shot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617126125108.jpeg" alt="Mosaic Life Care's mass vaccination site in the old Gordman's store at East Hills Mall in St. Joseph/Photo by Tommy Rezac" />
 <figcaption>Mosaic Life Care's mass vaccination site in the old Gordman's store at East Hills Mall in St. Joseph/Photo by Tommy Rezac</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care encourages area residents to take advantage
of the mass vaccination clinic at East Hills Mall, before it closes.Mosaic Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Davin Turner, says the mass
vaccination site in the old Gordman’s store will not stay open forever. In
fact, it might be closing in the next couple of months as the number of people
signing up for COVID-19 vaccines drops.“And when we see the number of folks signing up decline even
more, we will be looking at how do we transition that vaccination process to
those pharmacies that have vaccination available to them,” Turner tells
reporters during a news availability.Turner says the clinic at East Hills has been running very
smoothly.The vaccine is given to Missouri residents or those who work
in Missouri free of charge. It usually takes 25 minutes to go through the vaccination
process, which includes the 15-minute wait after the vaccine is given.Turner says the clinic will close when vaccination sign ups
drop. He hopes more will take advantage of the clinic at East Hills.“If you want your shot, you need to sign up, because again as
the numbers dwindle and the numbers have really substantially dropped off of folks
signing up to get the vaccine, we really want you to sign up so you can get
your vaccine,” Turner says.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617126228958.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Turner says Mosaic is watching the numbers closely to
determine when to close the clinic.&nbsp;
Missouri recently opened vaccinations to Phase 2 after going through all
three tiers of Phase 1. Phase 2 includes commercial facilities sector, critical
manufacturing, construction, financial services, and sector two of food and
agriculture among others. Turner expects the state to open vaccinations to all
Missourians soon, likely before the scheduled April 9th date.A date will be chosen to provide the last of the first doses
at the East Hills Mall clinic. Once the clinic no longer gives first doses, it
will close within four to five weeks after everyone who received the first shot
of Pfizer of Moderna vaccine has time to get their second shot.Turner urges residents not to put it off. “You have the ability to sign up now,” Turner points out. “Even
if your tier is not open. So, we encourage those folks to sign up so that we
know what volume we’re going to have.”Residents can click <a href="https://www.mymlc.com/General/coronavirus-covid-19/covid-19-vaccine-registration/">here</a> for the Mosaic Life Care website and
register.Mosaic has administered the first dose of vaccine to 15,508
residents at the St. Joseph site with 7,753 residents receiving their second
shot as of last week. Mosaic has given 3,501 first doses at its Maryville
location as of last week with 2,317 receiving their second shot.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617126268124.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Mosaic encourages residents to get their shots before Gordman's clinic closes

A state senator wants to re-direct federal stimulus payments
which might be heading to prisoners who owe compensation to victims.

Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville sponsors the measure being
considered during the legislative session in Jefferson City.

“If these prisoners owe restitution to a victim, it requires that
the Department of Corrections would intercept these funds and make sure that restitution
is paid before any of the funds make there way to these prisoners,” Luetkemeyer
says of his bill.

Congress recently approved $1,400 stimulus payments to
Americans earning less than $75,000 a year as part of its economic stimulus
package. Couples earning up to $150,000 qualify as well.

Luetkemeyer says prisoners shouldn’t have gotten stimulus
payments in the first place.

“I disagree with what the feds did,” Luetkemeyer tells St.
Joseph Post. “I think they should have carved out prisoners, that prisoners
should not be receiving the checks at all. But one thing that we can do is we
can say if you owe restitution to a victim as a prisoner that restitution must
be paid before you can gain access to those checks.”

Luetkemeyer is also working on legislation to exempt the
federal stimulus checks from state income tax, a measure he sponsored last year
that won approval in the last legislative session.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617118756777.jpeg" alt="Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer speaking on the Senate floor/Photo courtesy of Missouri Senate" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer speaking on the Senate floor/Photo courtesy of Missouri Senate</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA state senator wants to re-direct federal stimulus payments
which might be heading to prisoners who owe compensation to victims.Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville sponsors the measure being
considered during the legislative session in Jefferson City.“If these prisoners owe restitution to a victim, it requires that
the Department of Corrections would intercept these funds and make sure that restitution
is paid before any of the funds make there way to these prisoners,” Luetkemeyer
says of his bill.Congress recently approved $1,400 stimulus payments to
Americans earning less than $75,000 a year as part of its economic stimulus
package. Couples earning up to $150,000 qualify as well.Luetkemeyer says prisoners shouldn’t have gotten stimulus
payments in the first place.“I disagree with what the feds did,” Luetkemeyer tells St.
Joseph Post. “I think they should have carved out prisoners, that prisoners
should not be receiving the checks at all. But one thing that we can do is we
can say if you owe restitution to a victim as a prisoner that restitution must
be paid before you can gain access to those checks.”Luetkemeyer is also working on legislation to exempt the
federal stimulus checks from state income tax, a measure he sponsored last year
that won approval in the last legislative session.

Federal stimulus checks going to prisoners would go to victims first under bill

Second Harvest Community Food Bank was able to serve its 19-county area well last year, thanks to the donations they received during the pandemic. 

Second Harvest Spokesperson Blake Haynes says donors rallied around Second Harvest and what it does for the community.

"We really just saw the communities in our area and our 19-counties really just rally together to help their neighbors in need," Haynes tells St. Joseph Post. "We had a lot of, even some first-time donors, some recurring donors, some that have given for multi-year, even give more than what they have in the past." 

Many people lost their jobs or were sick, and unable to provide for themselves or their families last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Haynes says the food insecurity rate went up significantly during the pandemic. 

"At the beginning of the pandemic we were right around 45,000 food insecure individuals within our 19-counties," says Haynes. "Now fast forward to peak time pandemic numbers come out and we are right around 64,000 food insecure individuals." 

Haynes says Second Harvest has been able to support food insecure individuals with donations from the community. He encourages the community to continue to donate and says every dollar donated provides three meals. 

By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostSecond Harvest Community Food Bank was able to serve its 19-county area well last year, thanks to the donations they received during the pandemic. Second Harvest Spokesperson Blake Haynes says donors rallied around Second Harvest and what it does for the community."We really just saw the communities in our area and our 19-counties really just rally together to help their neighbors in need," Haynes tells St. Joseph Post. "We had a lot of, even some first-time donors, some recurring donors, some that have given for multi-year, even give more than what they have in the past." Many people lost their jobs or were sick, and unable to provide for themselves or their families last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Haynes says the food insecurity rate went up significantly during the pandemic. "At the beginning of the pandemic we were right around 45,000 food insecure individuals within our 19-counties," says Haynes. "Now fast forward to peak time pandemic numbers come out and we are right around 64,000 food insecure individuals." Haynes says Second Harvest has been able to support food insecure individuals with donations from the community. He encourages the community to continue to donate and says every dollar donated provides three meals.

Donors rallies around Second Harvest in support of the community

A 26-year-old St. Joseph man has been charged with second degree
murder in the shooting of a 38-year-old early Sunday morning.

Devin Sollars is scheduled to appear in court tomorrow morning, charged with shooting and killing Jeffrey Grippando.

St. Joseph police found Grippando dead from a single gunshot
wound at a residence in the 1800 block of North 2nd Street at
around 4:20 Sunday morning.

Sollars is being held in the Buchanan County jail without
bond.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 26-year-old St. Joseph man has been charged with second degree
murder in the shooting of a 38-year-old early Sunday morning.Devin Sollars is scheduled to appear in court tomorrow morning, charged with shooting and killing Jeffrey Grippando.St. Joseph police found Grippando dead from a single gunshot
wound at a residence in the 1800 block of North 2nd Street at
around 4:20 Sunday morning.Sollars is being held in the Buchanan County jail without
bond.

26-year-old charged with 2nd degree murder in St. Joseph shooting death

ATCHISON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Monday in Atchison County.

Police responded to a two vehicle injury accident at U.S.73 and Ravenhill Road at 8:22AM on Monday morning

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson reported a 2019 Ford Fiesta driven by Charlene Stout, 85, Atchison, was southbound on U.S.73 and turning east onto Ravenhill Road.

The Ford collided with a northbound 2013 Honda Civic driven by Kristina Kimball, 39, Lansing.

EMS transported both drivers to Amberwell for treatment of injuries, according to Wilson. Both vehicles sustained heavy damage and were towed from the scene.

ATCHISON COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Monday in Atchison County.Police responded to a two vehicle injury accident at U.S.73 and Ravenhill Road at 8:22AM on Monday morningAtchison Police Chief Mike Wilson reported a 2019 Ford Fiesta driven by Charlene Stout, 85, Atchison, was southbound on U.S.73 and turning east onto Ravenhill Road.The Ford collided with a northbound 2013 Honda Civic driven by Kristina Kimball, 39, Lansing.EMS transported both drivers to Amberwell for treatment of injuries, according to Wilson. Both vehicles sustained heavy damage and were towed from the scene.

85-year-old Atchison woman hospitalized after crash

Missouri state officials hope to convince the Army Corps of
Engineers to make changes to the Missouri River levee system.

Deputy Director Dru Buntin of the Department of Natural
Resources says Missouri is working with Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa state
officials to propose changes to the levee system in an effort to avoid the
problems which made the 2019 flood so devastating.

“It’s the states’ intention working together to take a
regional approach to looking at where are the areas where targeted investment
and focus about our approach to flood risk management is going to reap the most
benefit,” Buntin tells St. Joseph Post.

Of particular interest is the Missouri River L-536 levee in
Atchison and Holt Counties, which breached in five locations in 2019. The
Atchison County Levee District has suggested moving the levee back to allow
more room for floodwaters. The district also suggests upgrading the levee with
a more modern design.

A study commissioned by Missouri Gov. Mike Parson focused on
pinch points along the Missouri River, segments which restrict the flow of
water creating a greater potential for flooding. The study suggested the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers could alter not just the levees, but where they are
built, using setbacks and other moves to restore a more natural floodplain.

Buntin says the federal government has got to change how it
approaches levee repair, ditching the requirement that levees be restored only
to their pre-flood condition.

“If you’re only looking at the least cost alternative to build
exactly back and not considering if you might be able to invest a little more
on the front end that’s going to save a lot of money and damage and impacts to
people’s property and, potentially, lives at risk,” Buntin says.

Corps of Engineers officials say federal rules restrict them
to restoring levees to pre-flood conditions. It might take action by Congress
to authorize some of the changes advocated by the four states.

Still, federal officials are listening, according to Buntin.

“I think in some of the areas, we’re going to be getting together
and having some local discussions as well about what can we do and how can the
state be of support in that effort as we were able to do in the Atchison County
project,” Buntin says.

Buntin says the four states believe they have a better chance
for success if they unite behind proposed changes.

Buntin says a broader floodplain not only would help avoid the
widespread, devasting flooding seen in 2019, but would improve water quality by
retaining nutrients and sediment as well as provide better habitat for fish and
wildlife.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616784790531.jpeg" alt="2019 flooding in northwest Missouri/File photo by Brent Martin" />
 <figcaption>2019 flooding in northwest Missouri/File photo by Brent Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri state officials hope to convince the Army Corps of
Engineers to make changes to the Missouri River levee system.Deputy Director Dru Buntin of the Department of Natural
Resources says Missouri is working with Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa state
officials to propose changes to the levee system in an effort to avoid the
problems which made the 2019 flood so devastating.“It’s the states’ intention working together to take a
regional approach to looking at where are the areas where targeted investment
and focus about our approach to flood risk management is going to reap the most
benefit,” Buntin tells St. Joseph Post.Of particular interest is the Missouri River L-536 levee in
Atchison and Holt Counties, which breached in five locations in 2019. The
Atchison County Levee District has suggested moving the levee back to allow
more room for floodwaters. The district also suggests upgrading the levee with
a more modern design.A study commissioned by Missouri Gov. Mike Parson focused on
pinch points along the Missouri River, segments which restrict the flow of
water creating a greater potential for flooding. The study suggested the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers could alter not just the levees, but where they are
built, using setbacks and other moves to restore a more natural floodplain.Buntin says the federal government has got to change how it
approaches levee repair, ditching the requirement that levees be restored only
to their pre-flood condition.“If you’re only looking at the least cost alternative to build
exactly back and not considering if you might be able to invest a little more
on the front end that’s going to save a lot of money and damage and impacts to
people’s property and, potentially, lives at risk,” Buntin says.Corps of Engineers officials say federal rules restrict them
to restoring levees to pre-flood conditions. It might take action by Congress
to authorize some of the changes advocated by the four states.Still, federal officials are listening, according to Buntin.“I think in some of the areas, we’re going to be getting together
and having some local discussions as well about what can we do and how can the
state be of support in that effort as we were able to do in the Atchison County
project,” Buntin says.Buntin says the four states believe they have a better chance
for success if they unite behind proposed changes.Buntin says a broader floodplain not only would help avoid the
widespread, devasting flooding seen in 2019, but would improve water quality by
retaining nutrients and sediment as well as provide better habitat for fish and
wildlife.

Missouri hopes to work with neighbors to improve Missouri River levees

A 26-year-old man is in custody after a fatal shooting over the weekend in
St. Joseph.

St. Joseph police report witnesses heard one shot at the back
of a residence in the 1800 block of North 2nd Street very
early Sunday morning.

Few details are being released at this time as police continue
to investigate.

Police received the call around 4:20 Sunday morning. The victim
was a man in his late 30s. The 26-year-old was arrested. Charges are pending.

This article has been updated since first published.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 26-year-old man is in custody after a fatal shooting over the weekend in
St. Joseph.St. Joseph police report witnesses heard one shot at the back
of a residence in the 1800 block of North 2nd Street very
early Sunday morning.Few details are being released at this time as police continue
to investigate.Police received the call around 4:20 Sunday morning. The victim
was a man in his late 30s. The 26-year-old was arrested. Charges are pending.This article has been updated since first published.

One dead, one arrested in St. Joseph fatal shooting Sunday

A bicyclist in his 20s is being treated at KU Medical Center for
a serious head wound after being hit by a car at a St. Joseph intersection last night.

St. Joseph police report the bicyclist, a man in his 20s,
failed to stop at an intersection at Savannah and Oscar and was hit by a
vehicle which was traveling north on Savannah Road.

 The bicyclist suffered serious
head trauma. Police report the man is listed in critical condition.

Police report the driver stayed at the scene and has not been
charged.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA bicyclist in his 20s is being treated at KU Medical Center for
a serious head wound after being hit by a car at a St. Joseph intersection last night.St. Joseph police report the bicyclist, a man in his 20s,
failed to stop at an intersection at Savannah and Oscar and was hit by a
vehicle which was traveling north on Savannah Road. The bicyclist suffered serious
head trauma. Police report the man is listed in critical condition.Police report the driver stayed at the scene and has not been
charged.

Bicyclist suffers serious head wound in St. Joseph bike-car wreck

HARRISON COUNTY —One. person was injured in an accident just after 7a.m. Friday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Chevy Equinox driven by Dallas O. Lowrey, 95, Pattonsburg, was northbound on U.S. 69 just north of U.S. 136 two miles west of Bethany.

The vehicle traveled off the road, struck a ditch and overturned. NTA EMS transported Lowrey to Harrison County Community Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

HARRISON COUNTY —One. person was injured in an accident just after 7a.m. Friday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Chevy Equinox driven by Dallas O. Lowrey, 95, Pattonsburg, was northbound on U.S. 69 just north of U.S. 136 two miles west of Bethany.The vehicle traveled off the road, struck a ditch and overturned. NTA EMS transported Lowrey to Harrison County Community Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

95-year-old Missouri man hospitalized after SUV overturns

It was made official at a board meeting this week that Benton head boys' basketball and girls' golf coach Gary Belcher has been hired to lead Lawson in a similar fashion this upcoming school year.

 Belcher was named the head boys' basketball coach, girls' and boys' golf coach and Math Instructor at Lawson High School.

A St. Joseph native and 1982 Central alum, Belcher has been a boys' basketball coach in northwest Missouri for 22 years and has guided Lathrop (1998-2001), Warrensburg (2001-2004), Kearney (2005-2014) and Benton all to winning records.

Belcher finished his tenure at Benton with a 101-80 record. He first informed his players and the administration of his decision last Thursday.

Belcher mentioned that the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f9528775-1917-4031-a70b-53a98649f034">$107 million bond issue</a> on the April 6 ballot was part of the reason why he applied to Lawson.

The proposed bond, if passed, would convert both Benton and Lafayette into middle schools and bring the addition of a new high school at the American Family Insurance regional headquarters building. That new high school would operate alongside St. Joseph Central.

"I grew up in St. Joe and I love St. Joe," Belcher said. "My parents still live there. But, kind of the uncertainty of what lies ahead makes you pause and think for a little bit. When these two opportunities are kind of out there, this one (at Lawson) kind of matches the one I have at Benton.

"All the talk is that within 1-2 years, regardless of whether the bond issue passes or not, they're looking to repurpose Benton into a middle school. You have to stop and think, 'You know, what does that mean for me, you know?'"

Belcher will take over for Brad Smith, who's retiring as the Lawson boys' basketball and boys' and girls' golf coach after 30 years.

Once Smith officially decided to step away this past November, he gave Belcher, an old coaching buddy, a call.

Belcher and Smith used to coach against each other during Belcher's days at Lathrop in the late 90s and early 2000s. Through offseason tournaments and the like, the two have kept in touch ever since.

"I wished him well," Belcher said of Smith's retirement. "I didn't really give it a whole lot of thought at first, but then I got to thinking, 'Well, you know what? He's a math teacher. He's a boys' basketball and coaches golf, too.' I know he's had a great program and a great run. Obviously, I have some big shoes to fill."

Belcher has compiled an overall coaching record of 353-237, including a Class 4 State Championship with Kearney in 2010, seven district Championships and a pair of conference titles.

 This past year, Belcher guided his girls' golf team to their first Conference Championship in school history and sent two golfers to the Class 2 State Tournament.

Belcher also serves as the Vice President of the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association and is a Past President of the Greater Kansas City Basketball Coaches Association.

Belcher's wife, Debbie, is a Special Education teacher at South Valley Middle School in Liberty and also a real estate agent for Reece Nichols Real Estate in Kansas City.

For Belcher, whose family has lived in the north Kansas City area the last 15 years, the daily commute does become significantly shorter.

"I still live in the Kansas City area, so the drive is 25 minutes shorter for basically the same financial package," Belcher pointed out. "It was just too hard of a thing to pass up."

The decision to leave a job in his hometown was a difficult one, and Belcher isn't the only one who has uncertain feelings about the current bond issue.

But all of that aside, Belcher remains grateful for the time he had in the South Side, and looks forward to what lies ahead.

"All things considered, I feel very blessed and fortunate to get this opportunity," he said. "It was just too hard to say no to. I look back at the relationships I've built with the players and the parents and the community and the staff members, I'll take those with me the rest of the way. Those types of things, in my opinion, are more important than wins and losses, because those span a lifetime...St. Joe will always have a special place in my heart."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616794880359.jpeg" alt="Gary Belcher will be headed to Lawson next year to take over as their boys' basketball and girls' and boys' golf coach after spending seven years in a similar role at Benton. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Gary Belcher will be headed to Lawson next year to take over as their boys' basketball and girls' and boys' golf coach after spending seven years in a similar role at Benton. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIt was made official at a board meeting this week that Benton head boys' basketball and girls' golf coach Gary Belcher has been hired to lead Lawson in a similar fashion this upcoming school year. Belcher was named the head boys' basketball coach, girls' and boys' golf coach and Math Instructor at Lawson High School.A St. Joseph native and 1982 Central alum, Belcher has been a boys' basketball coach in northwest Missouri for 22 years and has guided Lathrop (1998-2001), Warrensburg (2001-2004), Kearney (2005-2014) and Benton all to winning records.Belcher finished his tenure at Benton with a 101-80 record. He first informed his players and the administration of his decision last Thursday.Belcher mentioned that the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f9528775-1917-4031-a70b-53a98649f034">$107 million bond issue</a> on the April 6 ballot was part of the reason why he applied to Lawson.The proposed bond, if passed, would convert both Benton and Lafayette into middle schools and bring the addition of a new high school at the American Family Insurance regional headquarters building. That new high school would operate alongside St. Joseph Central."I grew up in St. Joe and I love St. Joe," Belcher said. "My parents still live there. But, kind of the uncertainty of what lies ahead makes you pause and think for a little bit. When these two opportunities are kind of out there, this one (at Lawson) kind of matches the one I have at Benton."All the talk is that within 1-2 years, regardless of whether the bond issue passes or not, they're looking to repurpose Benton into a middle school. You have to stop and think, 'You know, what does that mean for me, you know?'"Belcher will take over for Brad Smith, who's retiring as the Lawson boys' basketball and boys' and girls' golf coach after 30 years.Once Smith officially decided to step away this past November, he gave Belcher, an old coaching buddy, a call.Belcher and Smith used to coach against each other during Belcher's days at Lathrop in the late 90s and early 2000s. Through offseason tournaments and the like, the two have kept in touch ever since."I wished him well," Belcher said of Smith's retirement. "I didn't really give it a whole lot of thought at first, but then I got to thinking, 'Well, you know what? He's a math teacher. He's a boys' basketball and coaches golf, too.' I know he's had a great program and a great run. Obviously, I have some big shoes to fill."Belcher has compiled an overall coaching record of 353-237, including a Class 4 State Championship with Kearney in 2010, seven district Championships and a pair of conference titles. This past year, Belcher guided his girls' golf team to their first Conference Championship in school history and sent two golfers to the Class 2 State Tournament.Belcher also serves as the Vice President of the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association and is a Past President of the Greater Kansas City Basketball Coaches Association.Belcher's wife, Debbie, is a Special Education teacher at South Valley Middle School in Liberty and also a real estate agent for Reece Nichols Real Estate in Kansas City.For Belcher, whose family has lived in the north Kansas City area the last 15 years, the daily commute does become significantly shorter."I still live in the Kansas City area, so the drive is 25 minutes shorter for basically the same financial package," Belcher pointed out. "It was just too hard of a thing to pass up."The decision to leave a job in his hometown was a difficult one, and Belcher isn't the only one who has uncertain feelings about the current bond issue.But all of that aside, Belcher remains grateful for the time he had in the South Side, and looks forward to what lies ahead."All things considered, I feel very blessed and fortunate to get this opportunity," he said. "It was just too hard to say no to. I look back at the relationships I've built with the players and the parents and the community and the staff members, I'll take those with me the rest of the way. Those types of things, in my opinion, are more important than wins and losses, because those span a lifetime...St. Joe will always have a special place in my heart."<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1017019972&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/tommy-rezac" title="KFEQ Radio, St. Joseph Post" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">KFEQ Radio, St. Joseph Post</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/tommy-rezac/benton-basketball-and-golf-coach-gary-belcher-reflects-on-his-tenure-with-the-cardinals" title="Benton basketball and golf coach Gary Belcher reflects on his tenure with the Cardinals" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Benton basketball and golf coach Gary Belcher reflects on his tenure with the Cardinals</a></div></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Benton's Gary Belcher grateful for coaching career in his hometown as he heads to Lawson

Freshman Congressman Jake LaTurner says there is quite a bit
of difference between working in Topeka and working in Washington.

LaTurner won election to the Second Congressional District of
Kansas after serving as the Kansas State Treasurer. He describes his first few
months in Washington as crazy.

“What I’ve been doing is what I should be doing,” LaTurner
tells St. Joseph Post. “I’ve been digging deep in my committee work. I’m on the
Homeland Security Committee, the Oversight (and Reform) Committee, the Science,
Space, and Technology Committee. I’m really enjoying those experiences and
working hard on the committee work.”

LaTurner defeated incumbent Congressman Steve Watkins in the
Republican primary and then won the General Election over Democrat Michelle De
La Isla, the Topeka mayor.

LaTurner says he has been enjoying his first few months in
Washington.

“I am. It’s challenging,” according to LaTurner. “There’s a
lot to do. There is no shortage of serious issues that need a lot of attention.”

LaTurner, who also served as a state senator from southeast
Kansas, says he has found that things move much slower in Washington than they
did in Topeka.

“You can show up in Topeka in January, introduce a bill, and
within a 90-day session you can see that bill signed by the governor and
implemented and become law,” LaTurner says.

LaTurner says he hopes to keep in touch with his district even
while working in Washington. The Second Congressional District is a large one,
hugging the Kansas eastern border from Nebraska to Oklahoma with a carveout for
the Third Congressional District of the Kansas City metro area. LaTurner says
his office has set up mobile office hours in every county in the Second
Congressional District.

LaTurner says the pace in Washington has been hard to adjust
to.

“And so, it can be frustrating. It’s one of the reasons,
frankly, that I support term limits at the federal level,” LaTurner says. “You
see folks that have been here in Washington, D.C. for 20, 30, 40 years. They
are entrenched. They don’t want to fix Washington, D.C., because Washington, D.C.
is not broken for them; it works like a charm.&nbsp;
It’s broken for the rest of us.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616776441320.jpeg" alt="Jake LaTurner campaigns/Photo courtesy of Turner for Congress" />
 <figcaption>Jake LaTurner campaigns/Photo courtesy of Turner for Congress</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostFreshman Congressman Jake LaTurner says there is quite a bit
of difference between working in Topeka and working in Washington.LaTurner won election to the Second Congressional District of
Kansas after serving as the Kansas State Treasurer. He describes his first few
months in Washington as crazy.“What I’ve been doing is what I should be doing,” LaTurner
tells St. Joseph Post. “I’ve been digging deep in my committee work. I’m on the
Homeland Security Committee, the Oversight (and Reform) Committee, the Science,
Space, and Technology Committee. I’m really enjoying those experiences and
working hard on the committee work.”LaTurner defeated incumbent Congressman Steve Watkins in the
Republican primary and then won the General Election over Democrat Michelle De
La Isla, the Topeka mayor.LaTurner says he has been enjoying his first few months in
Washington.“I am. It’s challenging,” according to LaTurner. “There’s a
lot to do. There is no shortage of serious issues that need a lot of attention.”LaTurner, who also served as a state senator from southeast
Kansas, says he has found that things move much slower in Washington than they
did in Topeka.“You can show up in Topeka in January, introduce a bill, and
within a 90-day session you can see that bill signed by the governor and
implemented and become law,” LaTurner says.LaTurner says he hopes to keep in touch with his district even
while working in Washington. The Second Congressional District is a large one,
hugging the Kansas eastern border from Nebraska to Oklahoma with a carveout for
the Third Congressional District of the Kansas City metro area. LaTurner says
his office has set up mobile office hours in every county in the Second
Congressional District.LaTurner says the pace in Washington has been hard to adjust
to.“And so, it can be frustrating. It’s one of the reasons,
frankly, that I support term limits at the federal level,” LaTurner says. “You
see folks that have been here in Washington, D.C. for 20, 30, 40 years. They
are entrenched. They don’t want to fix Washington, D.C., because Washington, D.C.
is not broken for them; it works like a charm.&nbsp;
It’s broken for the rest of us.”

LaTurner finds DC different than Topeka as he begins Congressional career

By ALEX SMITH <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2021-03-25/officials-say-cause-of-death-unknown-for-kansas-woman-who-got-covid-19-shot">Kansas News Service</a>

Kansas officials confirmed on Thursday that a 68-year-old Atchison 
County woman experienced anaphylaxis and died after she received a 
COVID-19 vaccination, but said no link between the shot and her death had
 been determined.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment said on Thursday it would investigate the case.

The
 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 126 million 
doses of COVID-19 vaccines were administered in the U.S. from 
mid-December through March 22. The agency received 2,216 reports of 
deaths following the administration of doses, but its reviews have found
 no evidence that the vaccines caused those deaths.

Doctors at the
 University of Kansas, who did not treat the patient, said on Thursday 
that more information would be needed to understand what occurred. But 
they cautioned against people basing opinions of vaccines on a single 
incident or media coverage of it.

“What you don’t want to do is, 
in this time where we have such great division in this country and such a
 great fight between red states and blues states — don’t take this event
 and take it to such an extreme that you say no one should be 
vaccinated, because the fact is that everyone should be vaccinated,” 
said University of Kansas Chief Medical Officer Steven Stites.

On 
its Facebook page Wednesday evening, NBC affiliate KSNT in Topeka cited 
the obituary of 68-year-old Jeanie Evans of Effingham, Kansas, which 
flatly stated that the cause of death was “a reaction to the Covid 
vaccine.” The obituary reported that Evans had died at Stormont Vail 
Hospital in Topeka. 

The story was then picked up by other TV 
stations, including KCTV Channel 5 and KMBC Channel 9 in Kansas City. By
 late Thursday morning, it had been shared more than 1,000 times on 
Facebook. Although many of those who shared it posted comments skeptical
 of the vaccines’ safety, others were critical of the news outlets’ 
reporting or attacked other commenters. 

By noon, the New York Post and Fox5 New York, had also published articles on Evans’ death.

KDHE
 confirmed to KCUR on Thursday that a 68-year-old Atchison County woman 
had died but said a cause of death had yet to be determined by a medical
 expert.

“Until the investigation is complete, it is premature to 
assign a specific cause of death,” Kansas Department of Health and 
Environment spokeswoman Kristi Zears said in an email.

The death will be investigated in accordance with standard protocol,  Zears added.

A
 spokesman for Stormont Vail confirmed that Evans, who was vaccinated 
elsewhere, had died after being transported to the hospital. 

"The
 individual was transported to our hospital after receiving the vaccine 
in the region. A cause of death has yet to be determined. Our thoughts 
and condolences are with the family," spokesman Matt Lara said in an 
email. 

KCUR was unable to reach Evans’ family on Thursday.

Stites,
 of KU, said that, while an extreme reaction to a vaccine dose is 
possible, deaths may occur following the administration of a vaccine due
 to many unrelated causes, such as a heart attack or stroke.

Stites
 encouraged the public to honor the Evans family's loss while also 
recognizing the overwhelming evidence of the vaccines' safety.

“The
 rest of us have to understand that that pain in that isolated instance 
is not measured," Stites said. "We can’t measure it for that family. We 
can’t find solace for that family. But we know that, throughout the 
world and throughout mankind, there is no question that vaccines save 
millions and millions and millions and millions of lives relative to the
 number of people who die.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616770405447.png" alt="Jeanie Evans of Atchison, Kansas, died on Wednesday, a day after receiving a COVID-19 vaccination, according to her obituary. " />
 <figcaption>Jeanie Evans of Atchison, Kansas, died on Wednesday, a day after receiving a COVID-19 vaccination, according to her obituary. </figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEX SMITH <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2021-03-25/officials-say-cause-of-death-unknown-for-kansas-woman-who-got-covid-19-shot">Kansas News Service</a>Kansas officials confirmed on Thursday that a 68-year-old Atchison 
County woman experienced anaphylaxis and died after she received a 
COVID-19 vaccination, but said no link between the shot and her death had
 been determined.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment said on Thursday it would investigate the case.The
 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 126 million 
doses of COVID-19 vaccines were administered in the U.S. from 
mid-December through March 22. The agency received 2,216 reports of 
deaths following the administration of doses, but its reviews have found
 no evidence that the vaccines caused those deaths.Doctors at the
 University of Kansas, who did not treat the patient, said on Thursday 
that more information would be needed to understand what occurred. But 
they cautioned against people basing opinions of vaccines on a single 
incident or media coverage of it.“What you don’t want to do is, 
in this time where we have such great division in this country and such a
 great fight between red states and blues states — don’t take this event
 and take it to such an extreme that you say no one should be 
vaccinated, because the fact is that everyone should be vaccinated,” 
said University of Kansas Chief Medical Officer Steven Stites.On 
its Facebook page Wednesday evening, NBC affiliate KSNT in Topeka cited 
the obituary of 68-year-old Jeanie Evans of Effingham, Kansas, which 
flatly stated that the cause of death was “a reaction to the Covid 
vaccine.” The obituary reported that Evans had died at Stormont Vail 
Hospital in Topeka. The story was then picked up by other TV 
stations, including KCTV Channel 5 and KMBC Channel 9 in Kansas City. By
 late Thursday morning, it had been shared more than 1,000 times on 
Facebook. Although many of those who shared it posted comments skeptical
 of the vaccines’ safety, others were critical of the news outlets’ 
reporting or attacked other commenters. By noon, the New York Post and Fox5 New York, had also published articles on Evans’ death.KDHE
 confirmed to KCUR on Thursday that a 68-year-old Atchison County woman 
had died but said a cause of death had yet to be determined by a medical
 expert.“Until the investigation is complete, it is premature to 
assign a specific cause of death,” Kansas Department of Health and 
Environment spokeswoman Kristi Zears said in an email.The death will be investigated in accordance with standard protocol, Zears added.A
 spokesman for Stormont Vail confirmed that Evans, who was vaccinated 
elsewhere, had died after being transported to the hospital. "The
 individual was transported to our hospital after receiving the vaccine 
in the region. A cause of death has yet to be determined. Our thoughts 
and condolences are with the family," spokesman Matt Lara said in an 
email. KCUR was unable to reach Evans’ family on Thursday.Stites,
 of KU, said that, while an extreme reaction to a vaccine dose is 
possible, deaths may occur following the administration of a vaccine due
 to many unrelated causes, such as a heart attack or stroke.Stites
 encouraged the public to honor the Evans family's loss while also 
recognizing the overwhelming evidence of the vaccines' safety.“The
 rest of us have to understand that that pain in that isolated instance 
is not measured," Stites said. "We can’t measure it for that family. We 
can’t find solace for that family. But we know that, throughout the 
world and throughout mankind, there is no question that vaccines save 
millions and millions and millions and millions of lives relative to the
 number of people who die.”

Cause of death unknown for Atchison woman who got COVID shot

St. Joseph's Animal Shelter has been awarded a 1 million dollar grant from the City Council for the purchase and renovations of the new animal shelter. 

Friends of the Animal Shelter President Whitney Zoghby says the shelter has been fundraising since 2015 and heavily fundraising for the last few years. 

"We are approved to receive 1 million dollars in the CIP funds. That will be dispursed in the 2022-2023 fiscal year," Zoghby tells St. Joseph Post. "They asked us to raise 1.5 million in order to receive that 1 million for a total of 2.5 million that we estimated for the purchase of the Corporate Drive building and renovation to become the new animal shelter." 

Zoghby says the 2.5 million Dollars was the original estimated cost of the project however, it looks like renovations might cost even more now. 

"Obviously over the last few years inflation happens, COVID happened, so construction materials are especially expensive right now, so we are looking to continue fundraising," says Zoghby. 

Zoghby says the shelter will not be able to use the grant money immediately. 

"As much as I'd love to have the CIP money now, the 2022-23 cycle actually works out nicely to allow us to continue fundraising for the next year or so so that we can ensure that we have enough funds to cover renovations," says Zoghby. 

The shelter will continue fundraising for the next year or two waiting for the shelter to receive the grant in the 2022/2023 fiscal year. 

Also, sign-up for the Friends of the Animal Shelters' 7th Annual "Run/Walk for the Paws 5K" is available now. 

This 3.1-mile race is set for Saturday, April 17th at 2500 Southwest Parkway in St. Joseph. 

Zoghby notes that this is in fact a walk. 

"Typically people that participate in 5Ks are pretty competitive like to run however,  a majority of the people that participate in this one do walk they're joining the race because they care about our cause and it's really the only dog encouraging race in St. Joe," says Zoghby. 

Your dogs are encouraged to join you as long as they are friendly with other dogs and up to date on their rabies vaccination. There are typically over 100 dogs that participate in the race. 

Registration is 30 dollars and ends April 16th however, sign-up by  Saturday for a swag bag and a registration fee of 25 dollars. 

By WHITNEE ICE St. Joseph PostSt. Joseph's Animal Shelter has been awarded a 1 million dollar grant from the City Council for the purchase and renovations of the new animal shelter. Friends of the Animal Shelter President Whitney Zoghby says the shelter has been fundraising since 2015 and heavily fundraising for the last few years. "We are approved to receive 1 million dollars in the CIP funds. That will be dispursed in the 2022-2023 fiscal year," Zoghby tells St. Joseph Post. "They asked us to raise 1.5 million in order to receive that 1 million for a total of 2.5 million that we estimated for the purchase of the Corporate Drive building and renovation to become the new animal shelter." Zoghby says the 2.5 million Dollars was the original estimated cost of the project however, it looks like renovations might cost even more now. "Obviously over the last few years inflation happens, COVID happened, so construction materials are especially expensive right now, so we are looking to continue fundraising," says Zoghby. Zoghby says the shelter will not be able to use the grant money immediately. "As much as I'd love to have the CIP money now, the 2022-23 cycle actually works out nicely to allow us to continue fundraising for the next year or so so that we can ensure that we have enough funds to cover renovations," says Zoghby. The shelter will continue fundraising for the next year or two waiting for the shelter to receive the grant in the 2022/2023 fiscal year. Also, sign-up for the Friends of the Animal Shelters' 7th Annual "Run/Walk for the Paws 5K" is available now. This 3.1-mile race is set for Saturday, April 17th at 2500 Southwest Parkway in St. Joseph. Zoghby notes that this is in fact a walk. "Typically people that participate in 5Ks are pretty competitive like to run however, a majority of the people that participate in this one do walk they're joining the race because they care about our cause and it's really the only dog encouraging race in St. Joe," says Zoghby. Your dogs are encouraged to join you as long as they are friendly with other dogs and up to date on their rabies vaccination. There are typically over 100 dogs that participate in the race. Registration is 30 dollars and ends April 16th however, sign-up by Saturday for a swag bag and a registration fee of 25 dollars.

St. Joseph City Council awards the local animal shelter a 1 million dollar grant

Eight candidates for the St. Joseph school board differ in
their assessment of the school board’s proposal to buy the American Family
Insurance headquarters and turn it into a second high school.

School board Vice President Lute Atieh says retrofitting that
building saves time and money.

“I prefer to start with a structure,” Atieh says. “I’ve been
in the facility. I’ve spoken to the engineers. I’ve looked at it. American
Family did a great job maintaining that facility. It’s first class.”

Voters will choose three candidates from the field of eight
April 6th.

All eight discussed issues, primarily the $107 million bond
issue also on the April 6th ballot, during a candidate forum webcast
by the S<a href="https://www.facebook.com/saintjosephchamber">t. Joseph Chamber of Commerce on its Facebook page</a>.

The proposal calls for a dramatic shakeup of the St. Joseph
School District. It would provide the school district the money to buy the
American Family building across from Missouri Western State University and
convert it into a second high school. The district would retain Central High
School and convert Benton High School and Lafayette High School into middle
schools.

Investor David Foster favors the proposal, because it would
allow the high schools to offer equal curriculum.

“And that’s what’s most important to me,” Foster says. “I want
equal education, equal opportunity and as long as we can accomplish that then I’ll
be a happy guy.”

Opposed to converting the American Family headquarters is
Kenneth Reeder, a longtime community activist.

“Buying old, used buildings does not improve our education,”
Reeder asserts. “We’re talking about new, shiny buildings, not about the
education, not what’s in the classroom.”

LaTonya Williams owns a photography studio downtown and works at
the Bartlett Center. She says the location is not ideal, forcing some long bus
rides.

“Kids are not able to walk there,” Williams says. “Everyone
would need transportation. And so, as a Mom, I’m looking about the travel to
the building.”

Incumbent school board member Larry Koch supports the proposal,
calling it the best alternative.

“Long term, it is a very good option, a very good opportunity
for St. Joe, unlike any that I’ve seen in the past,” according to Koch.

The location of the American Family building concerns Colby
Oyerly.

“The amount of money that is going into that school compared
to what is going into the other ones, it just doesn’t sit for me,” Oyerly
states.

Disagreeing is incumbent Richard Gehring, who says the plan
will put St. Joseph high school students on equal footing.

“The building itself may be a little bit newer, but in the
end, if we get two high schools that offer equal academic, extra curriculars,
athletics, I am always going to be all for that,” Gehring says.

Retired educator David Jordan also says it is important to
realign the high schools to offer the same programs.

“Having similar offerings for all of our students; to me what
goes on inside that building is more important than what the actual building
looks like,” Jordan says.

St. Joseph voters will choose three for three-year terms on
the school board.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616706248916.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph school board candidates appear via Zoom on the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce forum." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph school board candidates appear via Zoom on the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce forum.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostEight candidates for the St. Joseph school board differ in
their assessment of the school board’s proposal to buy the American Family
Insurance headquarters and turn it into a second high school.School board Vice President Lute Atieh says retrofitting that
building saves time and money.“I prefer to start with a structure,” Atieh says. “I’ve been
in the facility. I’ve spoken to the engineers. I’ve looked at it. American
Family did a great job maintaining that facility. It’s first class.”Voters will choose three candidates from the field of eight
April 6th.All eight discussed issues, primarily the $107 million bond
issue also on the April 6th ballot, during a candidate forum webcast
by the S<a href="https://www.facebook.com/saintjosephchamber">t. Joseph Chamber of Commerce on its Facebook page</a>.The proposal calls for a dramatic shakeup of the St. Joseph
School District. It would provide the school district the money to buy the
American Family building across from Missouri Western State University and
convert it into a second high school. The district would retain Central High
School and convert Benton High School and Lafayette High School into middle
schools.Investor David Foster favors the proposal, because it would
allow the high schools to offer equal curriculum.“And that’s what’s most important to me,” Foster says. “I want
equal education, equal opportunity and as long as we can accomplish that then I’ll
be a happy guy.”Opposed to converting the American Family headquarters is
Kenneth Reeder, a longtime community activist.“Buying old, used buildings does not improve our education,”
Reeder asserts. “We’re talking about new, shiny buildings, not about the
education, not what’s in the classroom.”LaTonya Williams owns a photography studio downtown and works at
the Bartlett Center. She says the location is not ideal, forcing some long bus
rides.“Kids are not able to walk there,” Williams says. “Everyone
would need transportation. And so, as a Mom, I’m looking about the travel to
the building.”Incumbent school board member Larry Koch supports the proposal,
calling it the best alternative.“Long term, it is a very good option, a very good opportunity
for St. Joe, unlike any that I’ve seen in the past,” according to Koch.The location of the American Family building concerns Colby
Oyerly.“The amount of money that is going into that school compared
to what is going into the other ones, it just doesn’t sit for me,” Oyerly
states.Disagreeing is incumbent Richard Gehring, who says the plan
will put St. Joseph high school students on equal footing.“The building itself may be a little bit newer, but in the
end, if we get two high schools that offer equal academic, extra curriculars,
athletics, I am always going to be all for that,” Gehring says.Retired educator David Jordan also says it is important to
realign the high schools to offer the same programs.“Having similar offerings for all of our students; to me what
goes on inside that building is more important than what the actual building
looks like,” Jordan says.St. Joseph voters will choose three for three-year terms on
the school board.

Eight candidates address St. Joseph school bond program during forum

The Community Action Partnership of Greater St. Joseph officially opened the doors to its new Northside Head Start building on St. Joseph Avenue Thursday.

While CAP St. Joe held a small scale groundbreaking earlier in the year, the agency marked this occasion Thursday with a virtual grand opening on their Facebook page.

Ashley Phillips, the early childhood program director for CAP St. Joe, says this project has been nearly three years in the making.

"It really was about knowing that we have a lot of children and families in this part of town that needed service," she said. "So, it was about trying to find a facility that could have the capacity for that."

The building has multiple classrooms and play areas for youth ages newborn to five years old. Phillips says one of the main goals of the Head Start program is to insure young children feel prepared to enter kindergarten when that time comes.

"We really work to make sure that children and families in our community have the skills and the resources to be self sufficient going into kindergarten," Phillips said. "But also for just going out into our communities."

The $2.4 million project was made possible by funding from the federal Office of Head Start.

"A lot of our programs are five-hour days," Phillips explained. "These funds are so we can start to serve kids for a longer day. So, eight hours with busing, transportation and those kinds of things."

Thursday marked the first day that CAP St. Joe staff started work inside the Northside Head Start building. Phillips says it'll be about two or so weeks before kids start coming in.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616700373560.jpeg" alt="One of the play areas inside the Northside Head Start building in St. Joseph./ Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>One of the play areas inside the Northside Head Start building in St. Joseph./ Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Community Action Partnership of Greater St. Joseph officially opened the doors to its new Northside Head Start building on St. Joseph Avenue Thursday.While CAP St. Joe held a small scale groundbreaking earlier in the year, the agency marked this occasion Thursday with a virtual grand opening on their Facebook page.Ashley Phillips, the early childhood program director for CAP St. Joe, says this project has been nearly three years in the making."It really was about knowing that we have a lot of children and families in this part of town that needed service," she said. "So, it was about trying to find a facility that could have the capacity for that."The building has multiple classrooms and play areas for youth ages newborn to five years old. Phillips says one of the main goals of the Head Start program is to insure young children feel prepared to enter kindergarten when that time comes."We really work to make sure that children and families in our community have the skills and the resources to be self sufficient going into kindergarten," Phillips said. "But also for just going out into our communities."The $2.4 million project was made possible by funding from the federal Office of Head Start."A lot of our programs are five-hour days," Phillips explained. "These funds are so we can start to serve kids for a longer day. So, eight hours with busing, transportation and those kinds of things."Thursday marked the first day that CAP St. Joe staff started work inside the Northside Head Start building. Phillips says it'll be about two or so weeks before kids start coming in.Head Start's open enrollment period for the next academic year started this March. CAP St. Joe has similar facilities in not only Buchanan County, but in Andrew and Clinton County as well.Families who are interested in signing up for the Head Start program are encouraged to call the main line at 816-233-8281."Everyone is excited for us to be investing in this part of our community," Phillips said. "They're excited for children to be able to come to a space that meets everyone's needs. Same thing for families."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616700411098.jpeg" alt="One of the classrooms inside the new Northside Head Start building in St. Joseph./ Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>One of the classrooms inside the new Northside Head Start building in St. Joseph./ Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

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