Author: News-Press NOW

Praji Ghosh

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Community members were invited to give input and be front and center as the St. Joseph School District reviews topics discussed at an Oct. 13 public hearing.

SJSD held a Town Hall meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 21, at Lafayette High School.  

District leaders went over what was discussed in the Oct. 13 public hearing — including an impact analysis that followed board policy.  

Leaders also revisited topics from the board’s recent work session, like a proposal to move Edison Elementary School to the north side as part of SJSD’s Plan 2. 

Plan 2 pointed to a Lafayette and Central High School model.

Another major point of discussion was boundary adjustments — giving students a chance to attend schools closer to home, ideally within a mile of where they live. 

Feeder maps Download

Plan 2 Feeder System and numbersDownload

SJSD also discussed Plan 7, which supports a Central High School and Benton/Hyde model, and Plan E, which keeps all three high schools open and proposes the “least amount of cost and disruption to implement, while achieving necessary cuts.

Plan 7 feeder systemDownload

Plan E feeder systemDownload

As with previous hearings, community members had the opportunity to speak for up to three minutes after providing their name and address. 

The focus centered on facilities and the district’s ongoing reorganization plans. 

Lafayette High School teacher Jeff Leake, who spoke at the hearing, said this could be one of the biggest decisions the district has ever faced.  

“The two plans that they were debating were just two schools and they had a lot of disruption with staff movement and I wanted to investigate a different path which is plan E, keeping three schools,” Leake said.  

He said he’s a strong believer in smaller schools and that keeping a sense of community is what matters most to him.  

He said this plan would benefit students the most and cause the least amount of disruption, even though the other options have some positives, they also come with more challenges.  

Another community member — a parent with two high school graduates and a current Lafayette sophomore — spoke in support of Plan B.  

She said the best way to restore the district’s financial health is by choosing Option Two, which would affect about 427 staff members and 3,878 students — saving roughly $31.6 million in staffing costs. In comparison, the alternative plan would impact 535 staff and 4,257 students, saving only $2.3 million.  

“The financial benefits of option two are higher reserve recovery by 19.89% by 2030 versus 16% lower disruption, 118 fewer staff and 379 fewer students impacted,” community member said.    

Another Lafayette student said she’s worried about the impact these changes could have on students’ mental health.  

She said many students feel overwhelmed by these decisions because they directly impact their lives, especially as seniors looking ahead to new opportunities.  

“I do feel like Lafayette is a better decision because its more cost effective since you can hold way more people in Lafayette Versus Benton and Hyde and you have to change Hyde from an elementary school to fit into a high school,” Erica Spiker said.  

Spiker said she hopes the board makes a decision that leaves everyone as satisfied as possible.  

The board is set to make its final decision at the next meeting on Monday, Oct. 27 — that’s when the community will find out which plan they choose.  

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News-Press NOW

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — As November approaches, City officials are reminding residents to follow guidelines for open burning.

Open burning of dry yard waste is allowed within the city limits twice a year, during April and November.

Throughout those months, fires are only allowed between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., and must be in an upright container with a volume equal to no more than 55 gallons. A drum-sized container constructed of wire mesh is permissible.

No fire can be 15 feet from any building, and only one burn per container per residence is allowed.

All fires should contain yard-waste only, such as leaves, brush, sticks and logs, and must be monitored closely by a person capable of containing the fire.

Firefighting material, including a garden hose or a container of water, should be at the site of the fire.

As some households prepare for open burning, the St. Joseph Health Department shared that any Fire Department response to open burning calls will be treated as “non-emergency”, meaning no lights or sirens, unless the fire is threatening a structure.

Any violation of open burning restrictions may result in a summons to appear in court for a misdemeanor violation, according to the Health Department.

If weather conditions, such as high winds, indicate the safety of the community is endangered or may create a health hazard, the Fire Chief or Health Director may invoke a temporary burning ban.

The Health Department encourages residents to explore alternatives to open burning that don’t contribute to air pollution, are not dependent on time restrictions or the weather and provide a healthy benefit for physical activity while doing yard work.

Such activities include: mowing leaves into fine particles to fertilize the lawn or incorporating leaves into a mulch container to decompose into humus for use in vegetable and flower gardens or for use on lawns as soil amendment.

A larger wood brush that can be chipped can also be used as mulch around trees and shrubs.

If residents choose to burn, the Health Department suggests doing so within the open burning period, as the open burning session will not be extended due to weather blackout dates.

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Payton Counts

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) – Weather plays a big factor in what people choose to wear.

In the summer, tank tops and shorts are favored. Now, with fall-like temperatures coming into play, it’s time to switch out the closet with sweaters, jeans, long-sleeves and coats.

Beyond deciding what to wear based on temperature, seasonal fashion trends also play a major role in society, and they’re constantly evolving.

Fashion trends typically start with high-end designers or subcultures, then gain traction among influencers and early adopters. Once they are mainstream, they peak, fade and often return with a fresher look.

Seasonal changes are key drivers of what’s in and what’s not. As fall is settling in, shoppers are leaning into cozy clothes, denim and seasonal shades like brown, red and deep purple.

Vogue states that some of the top fall 2025 fashion trends include “Pop of Red,” “From the Neck Up,” “Monochrome Brown,” and “Modern Prep,” among others.

Some shoppers may not care about what the latest trend is, but want to find the best price.

Studies have shown, shopping behaviors also vary by generation. Gen Z (1997-2012) and millennials (1981-1996) favor online shopping, value quality and follow emerging trends. In contrast, Gen X (1965-1980) are more driven by discounts, loyalty programs and seasonal sales.

At Narrative Boutique, Owner Jenny Geheb said her business isn’t seeing much of an age gap.

“We try to have something for every single age. So oftentimes here at Narrative, we will see granddaughters, moms and grandmothers,” said Geheb.

So how does this local boutique stay in touch with latest styles? Rhonda Luster, who shops online and at other boutiques for Narrative, said one way she finds her inspiration is from social media influencers.

She’s also noticing fashion trends and certain materials making a comeback.

“For this year, suede is going to be really big for fall and winter, and those big fur coats they wore in the 70s,” said Luster.

Either way, no matter what style is preferred is, staying warm as winter approaches is the ultimate goal.

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Patrick Holleron

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — The ongoing renovations at Phil Welch Stadium are ahead of schedule, with the expectation of the project’s completion before the St. Joseph Mustangs kickoff their new season.

As previously reported, new seats and bleachers are being installed alongside layers of concrete.

Upon further inspection, it was found that the I-beams holding up the main walking area needed to be replaced. The webbing holding the beams together had rusted and eroded over time.

“With the I-beams, they have been there since the 1930s, when the stadium was built,” Parks and Recreation Director Jeff Atkins said. “(Since) they’re steel, Mother Nature is going to win that battle eventually. As they were removing the concrete sections of the bleacher seating areas, some of that rust and erosion was seen.”

Atkins also added that new concrete couldn’t simply be added to the beams, as the structural integrity may fail.

Construction is still expected to be finished before the Mustangs play for their 2026 season.

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Alec Pascuzzi

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Local law enforcement is reminding the public about School Bus Safety Week and what it entails.

Monday, Oct. 20, marked the start of School Bus Safety Week and is meant to remind the public of tips regarding school bus safety.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol said students, parents and motorists should be aware that school bus safety is an important part of driver and passenger etiquette.

MSHP also urges, not only motorists, but school bus drivers as well, to be extra cautious with student riders, whether they are on the bus waiting for their stop, or getting ready to cross the street.

For motorists encountering a school bus, the MSHP also emphasizes patience.

“The motoring public… they need to remember school is in session this time of year here in northwest Missouri, so expect delays during your morning commute. If you get behind a school bus, be patient, be cautious,” said Sgt. Shane Hux, public information and safety officer for the MSHP.

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TaMya Bracy

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — The St. Joseph Fire Department is one step closer to getting a new fire truck.

The new truck will replace its current Ladder Five truck, a 26 year old, 95 foot Sutphin.

The new Ladder Five will have a 100 foot aerial piece and a tower ladder. The truck has been 10 years in the building process and is currently in Springfield, Missouri receiving its final touches.

The new truck will cost $1.65 million. Fire Chief, Ivan Klippenstein, said SJFD was able to pay for the truck in advance which saved the SJFD a significant amount of money.

“That was during COVID when everything was kind of crazy. So we paid in advance back then and it’s taken care of now,” he said.

Klippenstein said typically, SJFD likes to change a truck every 10 to 15 years depending on the condition; however, the department keeps trucks with large ladders for over 20 years.

“It’s not very frequent that we do it, obviously, but the next one is slated for 2027. So we’re already looking into the next purchase,” Klippenstein said.

Klipperstein also said the new truck gives SJFD different opportunities in different ways.

“This particular truck has a great deal of storage space compared to our older truck,  which will make things easier to carry and find in that truck. It will also give us the opportunity to keep the old truck as a reserve truck,” Klippenstein said.

Keeping the old truck as a reserve truck is something new o the department.

“We’re going to do an ISO (International Organization for Standardization) audit very soon and that’s one of those things. There’s a lot of little categories to fill, but that’s one of them we haven’t ever filled before.”

SJFD is expected to receive the new Ladder Five in two weeks.

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News-Press NOW

BETHANY, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Northwest Missouri high school students have been invited to participate in hands-on activities, inviting them into the world of construction.

The Associated General Contractors of Missouri (AGCMO) will host its second annual Build My Future: Construction Career Day and Industry Showcase at the Northwest Missouri State Fairgrounds in Bethany, Missouri.

Over 1,200 high school students from 45 Northwest Missouri schools will participate in the high-energy, full-day expo.

Students will kick off the day with a safety briefing, then rotate through hands-on activities, live demonstrations and interactive exhibits led by over 30 exhibitors and 16 sponsoring organizations.

The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 800 South 8th St. in Bethany, Missouri.

According to a press release from the AGCMO, in July of 2025, Missouri construction employment reached 150,300 workers- an increase of 3,400 from the prior year.

Additionally, the AGCMO said, “Construction careers consistently pay above the state median, with skilled trade roles offering immediate, high-demand opportunities.”

Throughout September and October- celebrated as Construction Careers Months- AGCMO has highlighted workforce needs and opportunities across Missouri with multiple Build My Futire events.

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News-Press NOW

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — U.S. Bank announced it would close its Downtown branch at the beginning of the year.

The announcement comes as the bank states:

“Clients’ banking preferences and behaviors are changing, influencing how and where we operate.”

The branch, located at 415 Francis St. occupies the original Robidoux Hotel site. It will officially be closed on Jan. 26, 2026.

Customers who opened up an account, or visited the branch recently were notified via mail.

U.S. Bank still has three other branches located in the St. Joseph area:

800 North Belt Highway

3115 Ashland Ave.

2701 South Belt Highway

The banking company said the closure won’t affect any accounts, and should not cause an interruption of service.

For questions regarding the closure, customers are encouraged to call the bank at 888-713-9299, or visit usbank.com/closureresources.

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Carter Ostermiller

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — St. Joseph will be in the backgrounds of a new independent film this week.

The Neighborhood Tavern, located at 2112 S. 10th St., served as a filming site this past Thursday, and The Missouri Theater and The Frederick Inn will also serve as other filming locations.

Producer and Assitant Director Thomas Cross, and Writer and Director Alec Huggins are filming, while actors Chloé Groussard and Micahel Abbott Jr. play the two main leads- Charlie and James.

The story is about a poor French vagabond, Charlie, who ends up stuck in small town America after missing her train trying to buy cigarettes. Charlie eventually finds her way onto a theater stage after being discovered by James, a former stage director from New York.

The film will showcase the dynamics between the two main leads, and explores both their pasts and journeys in the play.

St. Joseph residents are invited to take part in the show, as the crew is looking for people to play audience members while the film is being shot at the Missouri Theater, a driving factor to bring the film to St. Joseph.

“It was the Missouri Theater that that brought us to St. Joe specifically,” said Huggins.

Participants are encouraged to dress their best and come for the experience at 3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24.

Information and registration can be given by contacting bccfilmcontact@gmail.com

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Payton Counts

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) – This week, temperatures have finally cooled off and are feeling more fall-like — not only during the day but overnight as well.

On Tuesday and Wednesday night, temperatures are expected to drop into the mid to upper 30s, which could mean frost for Wednesday and Thursday mornings, allowing for the first frost of the season to be possible across Northwest Missouri and Northeast Kansas.

Frost forms when solid surfaces cool below the dew point. Typically, air temperatures between 33 and 36 degrees, along with light winds, are needed for frost to develop. Even a light frost can cause minor damage to plants.

Many plants are sensitive to frost, including tomatoes, peppers, pumpkins, magnolias and azaleas.

For first-time gardeners, there are several ways to protect plants.

Todd Hoggins, a field specialist with MU Extension said, “It doesn’t have to be much, it could be, you get blankets. There’s some frost covers out there available, but the idea is to to cover them up and don’t let that air there.”

When covering plants, drape the material loosely to allow air circulation. Use rocks, bricks or stakes to secure the covering and keep it off the foliage.

Some frost-tolerant plants, like cabbage, broccoli and radishes, can handle a light frost but may not survive a freeze.

A freeze occurs when temperatures drop to 32 degrees or lower, which can cause more significant damage to unprotected plants, especially if the cold lasts for several hours.

Frost doesn’t just affect gardens, it can also dull fall foliage, leading to muted colors and browning leaves. A hard freeze, on the other hand, can cause severe cell damage and kill plants, stunting fall foliage all around.

With peak colors right around this time of year, a frost could stunt some of that vibrant fall scenery.

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