Month: September 2025

Charles Christian

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Most people know their birthstones, but many don’t know that the concept has a variety of origins.

According to the International Gem Society, birthstones had their origin in the ancient world.

The Breastplate of Aaron (brother of Moses) mentioned in the Book of Exodus had twelve gems, one for each of the tribes of Israel.

As the Western calendar developed with twelve months, each month had a different stone. By the early 20th Century, jewelers through various groups formalized the modern version of birthstones.

Craig Obermier, jeweler for Creviston and Son Jewelry for the last 55 years, said the popularity of birthstones has remained consistent.

“I notice that both older and younger customers still come in to buy birthstones for themselves or family members,” Obermier said. “Of course, the older customers tend to buy more expensive versions, but all age groups are still attracted to the idea.”

He said the most challenging aspect of birthstones involves what jewelers call “the big three.” These are: diamonds (April), rubies (July) and sapphires (September).

While all stones can vary in price based upon size (carats) and smoothness, the “big three” have the biggest price flux, and buyers should be aware that not all stones are alike.

“For instance, because of the price of stones like diamonds, rubies and sapphires, it has become more common for people to consider lab-made versions, which look nice, but are less expensive,” Obermier said.

Smaller stores usually specialize in higher quality stones, whether it be pearls for the month of June or an emerald for the month of May.

However, asking a professional jeweler for recommendations based on occasion and price range is the best way to make your birth month shine.

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Charles Christian

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — A man released from prison for murder due to a false conviction will speak at a Constitution Day event at Missouri Western State University.

Floyd Bledsoe of the Midwest Chapter of the Innocence Project will speak at 6:00 p.m. on Sept. 17 at the MoWest’s Fulkerson Center.

According to a press release by MoWest, Bledsoe spent over 16 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. Convicted of murder in 2000, he was later fully exonerated in 2015 after DNA evidence identified the real perpetrator.

According to its website, the Innocence Project works to free wrongfully convicted prisoners, prevent wrongful convictions and advocate for a fair and compassionate justice system.

The event is sponsored by the Center for Student Involvement at Missouri Western. For more information, contact Crystal Dowdell at (816) 294-5975.

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Praji Ghosh

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) –North Church of God was celebrating its 95th anniversary on Sept. 14, with a cookout, inflatables and games.   

From bounce houses to backyard games, the event was packed with family-friendly fun, kicking off at 11 a.m. and rolling into a potluck picnic by 12:30 pm. 

 “Its my home church and I just think its important to celebrate this day with our church family. There’s a potluck and we will have a little luncheon since we have the tent set up,” Max Haywood, community member said.  

Haywood has been part of the congregation for eight years, joining alongside his wife and parents.  

He shared how the church began humbly in an office building, started by Pastor David and Carrier, with his sister Carrie among the first members.  

“So me and my family congregated here eight years ago to be with them and we have been going strong since then,” Haywood said.  

While kids bounced around in inflatable playhouses, adults caught up with friends and neighbors, soaking in the sense of community that’s been growing for nearly a century.  

Aubree Drake, another member of the church, said she was especially excited about the speakers who shared stories from the church’s rich history.  

“There’s something so special about community and coming together with other people especially because now more than ever it can be a lonely place and having a church family helps in that,” Drake said.  

Looking ahead, Drake said she’s eager to see what the next 95 years hold—not just for the church, but for the entire community.  

The message from the congregation was clear: everyone is welcome, everyone belongs, and no one should feel alone. 

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